Copper Stain Removal for Pool Surfaces
Lo-Chlor CU Later is an extra-strength 2-part stain remover formulated specifically to remove copper staining from swimming pool surfaces.
Used together, Part I and Part II target copper staining on affected areas of the pool surface. This specialised treatment is made for pools where copper staining has already developed and a more focused corrective approach is needed.
Features & Benefits
- Made specifically for copper staining – targets copper staining on swimming pool surfaces.
- Extra-strength 2-part treatment – provides a focused corrective approach where copper staining has already developed.
- Part I and Part II work in unison – formulated as a coordinated treatment system for copper stain removal.
- Suitable for affected areas of the pool surface – made for pools where visible copper staining requires targeted treatment.
- Also suitable for spot staining treatment – can be used as part of a spot-treatment approach for less severe staining.
How It Works
CU Later works as a coordinated 2-part treatment for copper staining. Lo-Chlor CU Later Part I is a strong oxidiser designed to enhance the performance of Lo-Chlor CU Later Part II.
Lo-Chlor CU Later Part II contains a special blend of organic and inorganic acids developed to remove copper staining from swimming pool surfaces.
Together, the two parts form a targeted treatment system for copper stain removal.
How to Use
- Adjust the pool water to pH 7.0 and make sure the chlorine level is below 1 ppm before applying the products.
- With the pump and filter running, add Part I over the discoloured area where copper staining has occurred.
- After a colour change occurs, wait 5 minutes, then add Part II.
- The product may be sprinkled directly over the stained area or evenly distributed around the pool.
- Run the pump and filter for a minimum of 24 hours, then resume normal filtration.
For less severe spot staining, proceed with Steps 1 to 3, then prior to Step 4, add a small amount of Part II to a sock or stocking, attach it to the end of a telepole, and dangle it close to but not directly touching the stain. If no sign of improvement is shown after a few minutes, revert to the procedure in Step 4.
Dosage & Coverage
- Pack size: 2 x 1 kg (Part I and Part II).
- Use rate: One complete pack per 50,000 litres of pool water.
Important Usage & Compatibility Information
- On quartzon, coloured pebble, coloured marble, exposed aggregate finishes, and printed vinyl liners, do not allow direct contact with the pool surface. For these finishes, mix the product in a bucket of water and disperse it evenly around the pool.
- Part II is a strong acid mixture and will reduce pool water pH and Total Alkalinity, so pool water must be rebalanced following use of Lo-Chlor CU Later Part I and Part II.
- After staining has been removed, use Lo-Chlor Metal Solution and Lo-Chlor Filter Aid and Metal Remover to remove dissolved metals from the water and help prevent re-staining. Dose per label.
This product is classified as Dangerous Goods. Handle with care, avoid contact with skin and eyes, and keep out of reach of children.
Why Choose Lo-Chlor Stain Busters?
Lo-Chlor Stain Busters is a specialised range created to tackle different types of pool stains and scale, because no single treatment suits every pool condition.
The range includes targeted products for stain removal, scale treatment, and ongoing prevention, helping pool owners and pool professionals take a more accurate approach to problem solving.
Manufactured in Australia and trusted by pool professionals, Lo-Chlor formulations are made for real-world pool conditions and long-term pool care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I work out what type of stain I have?
Pool stains are not always easy to identify. The same stain can look different depending on the pool surface, lighting, and water conditions.
The best starting point is to test the stain before choosing a treatment. If you are unsure, begin with a small spot test and treat a small area first.
What’s a simple spot test to compare metal vs organic stains?
A simple spot test can help indicate what type of stain you may be dealing with. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first:
- Vitamin C test: Place a vitamin C tablet (ascorbic acid) in a thin sock and hold it on the stain for 1–2 minutes. If the stain lightens, it may be metal-related.
- Chlorine test: Place a small amount of granular chlorine or a tablet in a sock and briefly hold it on the stain. If it lightens, it may be an organic stain, such as algae or leaf staining. Do not leave it in contact for long, especially on vinyl surfaces.
If neither test changes the stain, it may be calcium scale, oxidation, or another surface-related issue that needs a different treatment approach.
Is it a stain, scale, or surface oxidation?
- Scale is a mineral deposit, usually calcium-based, that often looks chalky or milky and feels rough, like sandpaper.
- Oxidation can give fibreglass or painted surfaces a dull, milky, or chalky appearance, often linked to water balance and sanitiser management over time.
- Stains are colour changes on the surface and may appear as small patches or affect larger areas.
Correct identification matters because different problems respond to different treatments.
Where do metals in pool water usually come from?
Metals can enter pool water in a number of common ways, including:
- Salt additions, which can contain trace metals such as iron.
- Top-up water, especially bore water or mineral-rich water.
- Long-term use of some liquid chlorines, where trace metals can build up over time.
- Metal-based algaecides, often copper-based.
- Metal fixtures, especially in some above-ground pools.
- Runoff and garden dirt entering the pool after rain or hosing nearby areas.
What causes copper staining in pools?
Most copper staining forms due to incorrectly balanced water or the use of copper-based algaecides. Copper can also enter the water from other metal sources and later deposit onto the pool surface.
Why do stains or scale sometimes come back after treatment?
Removing the visible deposit from the pool surface is only part of the process. If the underlying cause is still present, the problem may return later.
For longer-term results, it is important to manage both the visible issue and the cause, such as poor water balance, metal in fill water, salt additions, runoff, or metal-based pool products.
What should I do before and after stain or scale treatment for best results?
- Test first: Identify the problem and treat a small area first if needed.
- Follow the product directions carefully: For Lo-Chlor CU Later, chlorine should be below 1 ppm and pH should be around 7.0.
- Keep water circulating: Run the pump and filtration system as directed to help distribute the treatment.
- Rebalance afterwards: After treatment, rebalance the pool water as recommended.
- Focus on prevention: Ongoing metal control may be needed if the source of the problem remains.
