Swimming pools can be a lot of fun and a great place to unwind, but when algae starts to grow, they can also be a source of annoyance and disgust. Your pool may appear gross, slimy, and uninviting due to algae. If not properly treated, it can also result in infections as well as skin and eye irritation. We’ll go over how to recognize, avoid, and get rid of swimming pool algae in this article.
Types of swimming pool algae
Although swimming pool algae come in a wide variety of hues and shapes, green, black, mustard, and pink algae are the most prevalent varieties. The most prevalent kind of algae in swimming pools is green algae. They can be easily treated with a combination of brushing, vacuuming, and chemical treatments because they are typically not harmful.
On the other hand, black algae are much more resilient and challenging to get rid of. They can leave stains on the pool’s sides and bottom because they thrive in moist, shaded areas like corners and crevices. The slimy appearance and yellow-brown color of mustard algae are their defining features.
They are frequently discovered on the pool’s walls, floor, and equipment. More uncommon than the other types of algae, pink algae, also referred to as “red algae,” thrives in warm, humid climates.
Causes of swimming pool algae
The presence of high levels of chlorine is one of the most frequent causes of swimming pool algae. Although chlorine is necessary to keep the water in the pool sanitary and free of viruses and bacteria, using too much of it can make the water alkaline and encourage the growth of algae.
Algae can also expand as a result of low pH levels. The pH value serves as a gauge for the water’s acidity or alkalinity. If it drops below 7.2, the water may become too acidic and encourage the growth of algae. It should be between 7.2 and 7.8, though. Lack of filtration and circulation, the presence of organic matter in the water, and improper maintenance are additional causes of swimming pool algae.
Prevention of swimming pool algae
Preventing pool algae from growing in the first place is the best way to eradicate it. The right levels of pH and chlorine must be kept in place to prevent the growth of algae. Additionally, you should maintain a regular pool cleaning schedule and run the pool filter. Debris removal from the pool’s surface, such as leaves and insects, can also aid in limiting the growth of algae. Algaecides can be used as an additional precaution or as a preventative measure.
Getting Rid of swimming pool Algae
There are two main methods for getting rid of swimming pool algae: physical removal and chemical treatment. You should brush and scrub the pool’s walls and floor, vacuum the pool, and skim the surface of the pool to get rid of any debris before physically removing algae. To get rid of floating algae, you can also use a leaf rake or a pool skimmer. You can begin chemical treatment after you’ve physically removed as much of the algae as you can.
A combination of products, including shock treatment, algaecide, phosphate removers, and flocculant, is typically used to chemically treat algae. Shock therapy is a potent oxidizer that can destroy bacteria and algae. Normally, it is used once a week or as required. Algaecides are substances created especially to kill algae.
They are available in a variety of shapes, including liquids, granules, and tablets. Chemicals called phosphate removers are used to get rid of phosphates, which are nutrients that algae require to grow. A flocculant is a substance that makes small particles clump together, making it simpler to vacuum or filter them out.
It’s important to remember that you should always read the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions before using any chemicals to treat your pool. Additionally, it’s crucial to keep in mind that a chemical treatment may not be sufficient to completely eradicate the algae. The best outcomes will be obtained through physical removal combined with chemical treatment.
After the algae are removed, maintaining the right chlorine and pH levels, running the pool filter frequently, cleaning the pool, and skimming the pool’s surface to remove debris are all essential for keeping the pool clear and algae-free. In order to prevent algae growth and maintain a clean, inviting pool all summer long, regular maintenance is essential.
Conclusion
Algae in swimming pools can be a frustrating and unsightly issue, but it is not insurmountable. You can get rid of algae and maintain a clean, inviting pool by understanding the types of algae, taking preventative measures, and using a combination of physical removal and chemical treatment. When using chemicals, keep in mind to adhere to safety precautions and the manufacturer’s instructions. You should also keep in mind that routine maintenance is the key to preventing algae growth and keeping your pool clean.