In a matter of days, algae can transform your sparkling pool into a murky nightmare. At Blue Science Pools, we’ll carefully remove all traces of algae from your pool so you can quickly get back to enjoying crystal clear water.
What is Algae?
Algae are microscopic plants that come in a variety of forms and colors, including:
- Green (with variations of dark green, yellowish green, and blue-green algae)
- Black
- Yellow
- Pink
Green algae are often slimy, and they are the leading cause of green water in a pool. Black algae looks more like mold — clinging to the pool’s wall or floor in patches. Pink algae and yellow algae are less common and tend to hide in small crevices.
Why Does My Pool Have Algae?
Algae are very opportunistic; if your chemical levels become unbalanced for even a few hours, algae can begin to grow. This is why pool owners often see algae after hosting a large pool party (which decreases chlorine levels) or after a big storm (when leaves or debris fall into the water, feeding the algae, and rainwater contributes to further imbalances).
Since algae use photosynthesis to create their own food, they multiply incredibly quickly. This is why it’s essential to treat algae as soon as you discover it.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Algae
If you find algae in your pool, follow these steps to get rid of it:
1. Assess
First, inspect your pool to determine what kind of algae you’re dealing with. Black algae, for example, have a harder outer layer than green algae, which means you’ll need to scrub more aggressively.
2. Prepare
Ensure you have all the equipment and supplies you’ll need to remove the algae. This includes a pool water test kit, chemicals (including pool shock and stabilizer), gloves and protective eyewear to use while handling chemicals, algaecide, and a stiff-bristled pool brush.
3. Brush the Pool
Meticulously scrub the affected areas to dislodge algae from the pool surfaces. Pay particular attention to crevices, corners, and steps, where algae tend to hide. In some cases, you may have to actually drain the pool to get full access to the deeper surfaces.
4. Shock the Pool
Shock the pool with calcium hypochlorite. Don’t use dichlor, as its acid content may weaken the potency of the chemical against the algae. Test your pool water after the first shock to ensure it has the right chlorine levels. If it’s still low, you can shock the pool again in a few days.
5. Add Algaecide
After shocking the pool, wait 24 hours. Then, add the proper algaecide for the type of algae growing in your pool. Let the algaecide work away at the algae for another 24 hours.
6. Scrub Again
Once the algaecide has circulated throughout your pool, brush the affected areas once more. Make sure to really dislodge the roots so the algae doesn’t come back.
7. Vacuum and Run Your Filter
Finally, you’ll remove the algae by thoroughly vacuuming the pool. After, you can run your filter to catch any remaining algae particles. Make sure to clean your filter as well, so stubborn algae don’t cling to it.
Let Blue Science Pools Treat Your Algae
Sometimes, algae can be persistent — and a headache for you to deal with. If you’d rather have a professional handle the problem, contact Blue Science Pools.
Our seasoned technicians possess the knowledge and professional equipment to tackle algae infestations of any scale. We also offer preventative cleaning and maintenance, so you won’t have to deal with another algae annoyance in the future. Contact Blue Science Pools today to learn about our comprehensive, trusted services.