Algae is a problem that many pool owners are faced with every year. It can cover your water surface, making it difficult to see where you're swimming and causing the chlorine to dissipate faster due to a large amount of organic matter in the water. The good news is there are some steps you can take toward getting rid of algae so that you enjoy your pool again.
This blog post discusses ways of keeping your pool clean by getting rid of pool algae. But before that, let us discuss common types of algae:
Free-floating types include green algae and mustard algae.
Green algae are green in color. They can be seen floating on top or below the water's surface. Green algae do not attach to surfaces and are difficult to remove from pool walls. They are usually caused by high levels of phosphates in your pool.
A mustard-like yellow hue gives away mustard algae, which can form scums on the pool surface and attach to the walls. This type of algae thrives in warmer water and is often caused by poor circulation and low chlorine levels.
Black Algae
This type of algae is a problem for many pool owners. It is black, slimy algae that grow in colonies and attaches to surfaces. Black algae are difficult to remove and can survive high chlorine levels.
Now that you know the types of algae, here are some tips on how to get rid of them:
By increasing chlorine levels
If you are dealing with black algae, you can increase your chlorine levels. This will help to kill the algae colonies. However, it is important to note that high levels of chlorine can be dangerous and should only be done as a last resort.
By improving water circulation
Poor water circulation can cause an increase in algae growth. By improving your water circulation, you can help keep yourself clean and free of algae.
By vacuuming your pool
Vacuuming is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that your pool is algae-free. Even if you have a pump, you still need to vacuum regularly. By vacuuming regularly, you are pulling the algae out of the water before it has time to reproduce. It is also highly advised not to use any cleaners or chemicals when vacuuming. These products will kill off the good bacteria in your pool that eat up some of the organic compounds in the water. This type of bacteria is what keeps algae at bay naturally.
By adding barley bales
Barley bales are great for getting rid of green and mustard algae because they prevent sunlight from reaching into the water. The barley bales will also help to improve your water circulation.
These are some of the most common ways to get rid of algae in your pool. Remember, it is important to be patient and use various methods to ensure that you are getting rid of all the algae in your pool. Failing to do so can lead to an increase in algae growth and a decrease in chlorine levels.
Algaecides
Algaecides are chemicals that are designed to kill algae. They come in liquid or granular form and can be added to your pool directly or mixed into the water. However, they will lower the chlorine levels in your pool, so it won't be as effective at killing algae right away following an application.
Using a quality algaecide might not immediately kill all of the algae, but repeated treatments will eliminate the problem over time.
These are some of the most common ways to get rid of algae in your pool. Remember, it is important to be patient and use various methods to ensure that you are getting rid of all the algae in your pool. Failing to do so can lead to an increase in algae growth and a decrease in chlorine levels.
FAQs
How often should I use algaecide?
Algae growth is slow compared to chlorine degradation, so regular applications are required. Once or twice a week is usually sufficient. Remember that algae spores are always present in the water, so you need to stay on top of it.
What pool pump should I use if my pool has algae?
Pumps generally do not affect the growth of algae, but they do create better circulation. Stronger pumps will circulate water more effectively and help to keep it clean. If you have a good pump already, another effective way to improve circulation is by adding barley bales to your pool.
Are pool algae dangerous?
The types of algae that are dangerous are black and green. These can produce harmful toxins that can be dangerous if ingested. Therefore, it is important to get rid of these types of algae as quickly as possible.
