Algae growth in the pool is widespread, which can be caused by low or inconsistent chlorine levels and poor water circulation. You can eliminate it by balancing the pool’s chemistry and shocking and filtering the pool water.
Here in this article, we will guide you through the steps for having clean pool water and getting rid of algae simultaneously.
What is Algae?
Algae are a diverse group of aquatic organisms that can conduct photosynthesis. There exists a vast and varied world of algae, which are not only helpful to us but are critical to our existence.
Algae covers up many other different organisms, which are capable of producing oxygen through photosynthesis. Though they are necessarily not closely related to each other, certain features unite them. Primarily algae are not highly differentiated in the way plants are because of the lack of roots, true stems, leaves, and vascular systems.
What Causes Algae?
Algae are a natural part of all the aquatic ecosystems, but their prolific growth can cause a dense mass of algae called bloom.
It can occur when a combination of suitable environmental conditions exists for the abundant growth of the algae. Stable wind conditions, abundant light, increased nutrients, and warmer temperatures are the reasons behind algae growth.
In a few cases, a set of unique environmental conditions occur in a water body, which can trigger a bloom.
Types of Algae
Algae are protists that have the characteristics of plants and are usually found in aquatic environments. Algae can be categorized into seven major types based on functions, color, and distinct sizes, and it includes;
- Euglenophyta (Euglenoids)
- Chrysophyta (Golden-brown algae and Diatoms)
- Pyrrophyta (Fire algae)
- Chlorophyta (Green algae)
- Rhodophyta (Red algae)
- Phaeophyta (Brown algae)
- Xanthophyta (Yellow-green algae)
There are three types of pool algae, which you can observe in the pool
- Green algae
- Mustard algae
- Black algae
Tips For Getting Rid Of Algae
Green algae are the most common type of algae, which you may find in the swimming pool. It is also called swimming pool algae. It sticks to the pool floor and walls, which makes them slippery. To get rid of algae, you can follow these steps:
- Use a pool brush to scrub any pool surfaces covered with algae, including the floors, steps, and walls.
- Apply a green algaecide according to the directions on the label.
- Backwash or vacuum to remove the remaining dead algae.
- Add a pool shock product to boost any residual chlorine in the pool. Make sure to follow label directions carefully.
- Use the pool water kit to test your pool for PH level, chlorine, and stabilizer.
Mustard algae are yellow and very difficult to remove from the pool. It typically looks yellowish-brown or dirt-colored on the walls of your pool or the floor. Although you can easily brush it away, it will grow back quickly. One of the most important reasons it is difficult to remove mustard algae is because it adheres to anything that enters the pool. So make sure to clean everything in touch with the water after cleaning up the swimming pool.
Here are a few tips which you can consider to remove mustard algae from your pool:
- Using a test kit, measure the chemical level of your pool. You need to test and balance the pH level of your pool.
- According to the label direction, boost any residual chlorine by adding a quality pool shock.
- Use a pool brush to scrub and clean pool water where the algae have grown.
- Use the vacuum or backwash to remove the dead algae.
- Apply a mustard algaecide by following the label direction.
- Allow circulating the water for 24 hours.
- Use the backwash or pool vacuum again to remove the remaining dead algae. You often have to brush the pool and algaecide once more after three to four days.
Black algae is a stubborn organism with a protective outer layer, and it sets roots into the surfaces it clings to. It appears as black spots on pool surfaces; the treatment must also be aggressive to get rid of it. It requires a good deal of scrubbing. You have to follow the same steps that you have followed to remove the green algae from the pool.
- Apply a pool shock product, according to the label directions, to boost any residual chlorine
- Vacuum the algae debris
- Apply black algae treatment according to the label directions
- Remove the dead algae by backwashing or vacuuming.
- Repeat the steps for three to seven in another two to four days.
Once you complete all these steps, check the alkalinity level, calcium hardness, pH, and free chlorine. It needs to be in an ideal range so that you can prevent the growth of the algae.
Low or inconsistent chlorine levels, poor water circulation, and faulty filtration can be the reason for the growth of algae in the pool.
- The key to an algae-free pool is the balance of pH levels of the pool and regular maintenance.
- Ensure whether your filtration system is working properly or not
- Add a preventive dose of algaecide to your pool every week. It can kill and prevent the growth of the algae as well.
- Clean all the swimwear and toys which have been in natural bodies of water before allowing them into the pool to prevent the transfer of algae.
Browse the pool cleaning service in your locality that can provide you quality service, along with that it will guide, what are the reasons behind growth of algae in the pool, and how can you prevent the growth of algae in your pool.
Final Word
Alliance Pools & Patio assures customers quality services & stellar outcomes. We are here to help you with all your issues regarding cleaning the pool and will guide you on how easily and quickly you can get rid of all troubles to enjoy a carefree pool this summer! You can call us or visit our website for more details.