Expert Review: 5 Best Pool Clarifiers and Their Pros & Cons

Are you facing the problem of cloudy and green water in your pool? Then you’ve already encountered such a remedy as a pool clarifier. Its purpose is to deal with these problems. However, like any other chemicals, it is not a 100% panacea for all issues.

Therefore, to effectively deal with cloudy and green water, you need to find out the causes of this problem, then choose one of the top five clarifiers based on this, and read the tips for keeping the pool clean.

Let’s finally get rid of the annoying cloudy water!

Top 5 Pool Clarifiers Comparison Table

Robard Super Blue Pool Clarifier Winner in the category The most efficient water cleaning	Characteristics Amazon rating: ⭐️ 4.6 Item volume: 32 oz Consumption: 1 oz per 5,000 gallons Form: liquid Using duration: 12-24 hours What makes it the best The most efficient water cleaning – 60% of the respondents admit that it turns water from cloudy or green to blue, even at different temperatures and chemical levels; The safest option for filters – compatible with all types of filters; The most harmless – does not spoil the pool equipment and the chemical levels; Long-lasting result – keeps your pool water crystal clear for up to two weeks; Economy use – requires 1.4-32 times less than other clarifiers Jump to the detailed review
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GLB Super Blue Pool Clarifier Winner in the category The fastest cleaning rate	Characteristics Amazon rating: ⭐️ 4.5 Item volume: 64 oz Consumption: 10 oz per 5,000 gallons Form: liquid Using duration: 12 hours What makes it the best The fastest cleaning rate – turns your pool water crystal clear in 12 hours, which is 2 times faster than other pool clarifiers; The biggest pack – two times more clarifier than other options; The clearest instructions – just follow them and your water will turn crystal clear; High efficiency – 50% of respondents report that the clarifier cleared their cloudy/green water; Sparkling purity – gets rid of the smallest debris Jump to the detailed review
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> Lo-Chlor MiraClear Pool Сlarifier Winner in the category The easiest to use	Characteristics Amazon rating: ⭐️ 4.3 Item weight: 2.8 ounces Consumption: 1 unit per 15,000 gallons Form: shell Using duration: 12-24 hours What makes it the best The easiest to use – just put the shell in the pool near the pump and watch crystal clear water in 12-24 hours; The best in removing dissolved metals – removes iron and copper; The safest for the environment – it is biodegradable; Compatibility – can be used simultaneously with other types of pool treatments; Fewer algae – removes phosphates to reduce the appearance of algae Jump to the detailed review
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Aqua Clear Pool Clarifier Winner in the category The most enduring result	Characteristics Amazon rating: ⭐️ 4.5 Item volume: 32 oz Consumption: 1.4 oz per 5,000 gallons Form: liquid Using duration: 24 hours What makes it the best The most enduring result – your pool water can be crystal clear for 3 months, that is 3 times more than second the best result; The most universal – provides sparkling clearness even in saltwater pools; The safest option for all pool finishing – safe for plaster, aggregate, vinyl, and tile; Quick result – water becomes clear within 15 minutes; Step-by-step instructions – a structured guide allows you to use the clarifier without any difficulties Jump to the detailed review
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Clorox Super Water Clarifier Winner in the category The best in cleaning small particles	Characteristics Amazon rating: ⭐️ 4.6 Item volume: 32 oz Consumption: 1 oz per 5,000 gallons Form: liquid Using duration: 12-24 hours What makes it the best The best in cleaning small particles – gathers small debris into larger particles so that they do not pass through the filter and fall back into the water; The best in removing different debris – gather dead algae in the bottom; The most economical – you can clean up to 160,000 gallons of water; Cleaning rate – can clear water in 12-24 hours; High compatibility – works even with 4-5 years old sand filters Jump to the detailed review
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What Is a Pool Clarifier?

We can see the pool bottom because the water is clear, and debris does not interfere with light rays penetrating it. Over time, small particles can accumulate in the water, so it will become cloudy because light cannot penetrate solids.

But why should I know it? It is necessary to 100% understand how the pool clarifier works. This product is a coagulantCoagulant – substances, the introduction of which into a liquid medium containing small particles of a body causes coagulation, i.e., the adhesion of these particles.. It affects very small particles to collect them into larger ones. Due to this, the filter can stop them.

To summarize, the pool clarifier does not eliminate small particles. It collects them into large ones so that, after filtering, they do not fall into the water again.

Top 5 Best Pool Clarifier Detailed Review & Effectiveness

Our main goal is to help our readers choose the best pool clarifiers for their needs. Therefore, this review of the best remedies is based entirely on user experience and product reviews.

Initially, we collected ten pool clarifiers with an Amazon rating above 4.3 and more than 100 reviews, read more than 500 comments, and left only five products, each of which is the undisputed leader in one of the criteria.

Next, let’s explore the best pool clarifiers and find out their strengths and weaknesses.

Robard Super Blue Pool Clarifier – the most efficient water cleaning

The most efficient water cleaning

Robard Super Blue is one of the most purchased pool clarifiers which has the highest efficiency level. Out of ten respondents, six noted that the water in the pool became crystal clear:

“… But if you have CLOUDY water, this is the stuff you want.“

However, it is worth noting that the high efficiency of the clarifier will not harm your filter because it is compatible with sand, diatomaceous earth, and cartridge ones. According to user reviews, only two of five products have this feature: Robard Super Blue and Clorox Super Water Clarifier.

Moreover, one bottle of Robard Super Blue will last you for a long time! It is because 5,000 gallons of water require an ounce of the chemical. Since the bottle holds 32 ounces of product, you can clean 160,000 gallons of water (approximately ten 15,000-gallon pools). That’s 2.5 more pools than the Aqua Clear Pool Clarifier.

To summarize, Robard Super Blue is the highest-efficiency pool clarifier that will keep the water crystal clear without harming your filter. However, this may reduce the cleaning rate. You may need to wait up to 48 hours.

Pros

• The most harmless – does not spoil the pool equipment and the chemical levels, even with several overdoses due to the absence of toxic components in the composition;
• Long-lasting result – keeps your pool water crystal clear for up to two weeks, third best indicator among the best pool cleaners
• Economy use – requires 1 ounce per 5,000 gallons of water, which is 1.4-3.2 times less than other water clarifiers.

Cons

• You need to first add this to a bucket of water so that the clarifier is completely dissolved. Otherwise, it will settle to the pool bottom and cause pool liner bleaching.

GLB Super Blue Pool Clarifier – the fastest cleaning rate

The fastest cleaning rate

GLB Super Blue is an alternative to another product – Robard Super Blue. Despite their similar names, they have different key features. GLB Super Blue is the clarifier that has the fastest cleaning rate. You can clean your pool in 12 hours, which is twice as fast as the others and up to four times faster than Robard Super Blue.

Moreover, 50% of respondents noted that the pool water became sparkling clear. It is because GLB Super Blue can effectively group small particles into large ones, so the filter easily catches all the debris. Thanks to this, you can easily remove it with a vacuum cleaner from the pool bottom.

Also, GLB Super Blue has the largest volume at 64 oz. It is twice as much as others. However, you will need more of this chemical than others – one qt per 15,000 gallons (10 ounces per 5,000 gallons). You might argue that the product manual says to use one ounce per 5,000 gallons, and you’d be right. But we are based on user reviews, which point out that one qt per 15,000 gallons is needed.

To summarize, GLB Super Blue has the fastest cleaning rate and the largest bottle. However, you should be prepared for the fact that one bottle can clean up only 96,000 gallons, which is 1.6 times less than others with the best economic indicators.

Pros

• The biggest pack – you receive two times more clarifier than when buying other options;
• High efficiency – 50% of respondents report that the clarifier cleared their cloudy/green water;
• Sparkling purity – gets rid of the small debris thanks to the concentrated formula.

Cons

• Even though this clarifier has the largest bottle, it will end faster than others because you need to use 10 oz per 5,000 gallons, while other clarifiers can clear even if you use ten times less.

Lo-Chlor MiraClear Pool Сlarifier – the easiest to use

Lo-Chlor MiraClear is a unique pool clarifier that is very different from others. Unlike others, it is not liquid. It is a solid gel in the form of a shell. This feature is the reason for its main strength – ease of use.

You should put Lo-Chlor MiraClear near the filter and wait 12-24 hours. There is no need to measure out the right amount of chemicals as it is required with liquid pool clarifiers. You just need to know that one shell is enough for pools up to 15,000 gallons.

Moreover, this gel is safe for your pool and the environment. It is biodegradable and leaves no residue after use. Therefore, Lo-Chlor MiraClear does not clog the filter or affect water balance levels like Robard Super Blue.

To summarize, Lo-Chlor MiraClear is the best option for those who want to buy a clarifier, put it in the pool, and get the effect without any extra effort. However, be prepared that the effect may last less than 30 days specified by the manufacturer.

Pros

• The safest for the environment – it is biodegradable so it will not leave waste;
• The best in removing dissolved metals – the patented clarifier’s formula removes iron and copper so you need fewer chemicals to adjust the levels;
• Fewer algae – removes phosphates to reduce the chance of the appearance of algae in your pool.

Cons

• Some users report that the cleaning effect lasts less than 30 days, as indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging.

Aqua Clear Pool Clarifier – the most enduring result

The most enduring result

At first glance, Aqua Clear Pool Clarifier is no different from other liquid chemicals. However, its distinguishing feature is the most enduring result. Assuming you have balanced levels, one use of the Aqua Clear Pool Clarifier will last up to three months to keep your water crystal clear. It is three times more than the nearest clarifier – Lo-Chlor MiraClear.

Also, Aqua Clear Pool Clarifier does not contain toxic substances. Therefore, you can swim in 15 minutes after adding it to the water! Moreover, the chemical formula allows it to be used even in saltwater pools. It is the only clarifier reviewed that has this feature.

Otherwise, this clarifier is a bit inferior to other products. For example, you need to use 1.4 ounces per 5,000 gallons, which is 1.4 times the Clorox Super Water Clarifier. Also, its average cleaning rate is half that of GLB Super Blue.

To summarize, Aqua Clear Pool Clarifier is a product that allows you to do the treatment once and for all. In other aspects, it is a strong middle peasant. However, this does not make it bad but only emphasizes the main distinguishing feature.

Pros

• The safest option for all pool finishing – plaster, aggregate, vinyl, and tile will not be spoiled due to the pool clarifier use;
• Quick result – you will notice that the water becomes clear within 15 minutes after application.
• Step-by-step instructions – a clear and structured guide allows you to use the clarifier without any difficulties.

Cons

• There is no measuring scale on the side of the bottle that allows you to use the exact amount of clarifier.

Clorox Super Water Clarifier – the best in cleaning small particles

The best in cleaning small particles

Clorox Super Water Clarifier is a product that allows you to efficiently collect even the smallest particles. Moreover, it also helps remove dead algae by gathering them with debris into particles large enough for the filter to catch.

Also, along with the Robard Super Blue, Clorox Super Water Clarifier is the most economical product. You need to add an ounce per 5,000 gallons. Since the bottle contains 32 ounces, you only need one unit to purify 15,000 gallons of water about ten times.

It is worth noting that users notice that the Clorox Super Water Clarifier can effectively interact with filters that are more than four years old. It will not harm them as it collects small particles into large ones, so the filter can catch them. Therefore, if you have old equipment and cloudy water, try using the Clorox Super Water Clarifier because it costs at least $90 less than buying a new filter.

To summarize, the Clorox Super Water Clarifier is a product that can help you get rid of debris that other clarifiers can’t pick up or clean out a pool with an old filter. Otherwise, it has similar indicators to other remedies.

Pros

• The best in removing different debris – effectively gather dead algae in the bottom so you can remove them with a vacuum cleaner;
• High compatibility – works even with 4-5 years old sand filters so you can save approximately $90 on the purchase of a new one;
• Cleaning rate – 80% of the respondents report that it can clear water in 12-24 hours, which is the second result among all the best clarifiers.

Cons

• Filter pressure may increase after use. Therefore, you may need to backflush the filter.

How to Keep Your Pool Clean Using a Clarifier?

All pool clarifiers work differently. Therefore, there is no single instruction on how to use these chemicals to keep pool water clean. However, most of them can be used according to the following algorithm:

1. Preclean. One reason for cloudy water can be poor filtration. Therefore, try running your pool’s filtration system for 12-24 hours. If the cloudiness persists, proceed to the next step.
2. Apply a clarifier. Find the required amount of product to add to the water. It is listed on the product label. Next, slowly apply the pool clarifier over the pool corners.
3. Turn on the filter. Turn on your pool filter for 8-12 hours.
4. Remove residues. There may be residual debris and dead algae on the pool bottom. Therefore, you should vacuum the bottom to remove them.
5. Check levels. You can use test kits to check chemical levels. If they respond normally (they are indicated on the test strips), you can finally relax in the pool! Otherwise, adjust the levels.

Pool Clarifier VS. Flocculant VS. Algaecide

Clarifiers, flocculants, and algaecides are used to purify either cloudy or green water. However, the purposes of these remedies and the purification methods are different.

The differences between clarifiers, flocculants, and algaecides are as follows:

• Clarifier. The product cleans cloudy water by collecting small particles in the middle or on the water’s surface so that the filter can stop them. It should be used when the filter cannot handle particles in the water. Using the clarifier requires almost no effort but takes 24 hours.

• Flocculant. The product cleans cloudy water by collecting small particles into very large ones so that they settle to the bottom. It should be used in the same situation as a clarifier. However, the use of flocculant requires vacuuming particles from the floor but takes only 10-12 hours.

• Algaecide. This product kills and prevents the reproduction of algae, which is one of the main reasons for the appearance of green water. Also, before using algaecide, you should shock the pool to loosen the sea plants. In terms of time, it takes approximately 24 hours.

Summary

A pool clarifier is an effective way to deal with cloudy water. It collects all the small particles into large ones so that the filter can stop them. However, each pool clarifier is significantly different from the others. Therefore, to deal with cloudy water as effectively as possible, you should determine what goal you are pursuing:

• Get rid of the problem quickly;
• Get rid of the problem as efficiently as possible;
• Get rid of all small particles;
• Get rid of the problem with the least effort;
• Get rid of the problem for as long as possible.

In this article, we’ve rounded up five of the best pool clarifiers, each of which ranks best in one of the criteria listed above. You can easily get rid of cloudy water by choosing one of them.

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