How to Get Rid of Algae in Pools?

If you have some kind of pool in your backyard — whether it be an outdoor pool or an inground swimming pool — then chances are that you have dealt with pool algae of some kind. However, if it’s your first time encountering this slimy, green problem, you might feel quite overwhelmed.

The good news is that algae in pools is a relatively simple problem to solve and a common one at that. In this article, we will take a look at the most common causes of algae in swimming pools, as well as the best ways to prevent and eliminate them.

What Causes Algae in Pools?

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There is a reason why pool algae are most likely to occur after a long vacation or time away from the house. Most algae in pools can be easily prevented through regular pool maintenance, and will only begin to show once this maintenance becomes less reliable. That is because algae usually grow either when the pH level is disturbed or the chlorine level is insufficient.

If you have a saltwater pool, you can also be susceptible to algae growth. Your stabilizer could be low, your salt level could be low, or your salt chlorinator could be malfunctioning.

What are the Different Types of Pool Algae?

The four most common types of pool algae are as follows:

1. Green algae in pool, also sometimes called blue algae, which is by far the most common type found in pools.
2. Pink algae, which is not actually an alga but bacterial matter.
3. Yellow algae, also sometimes called mustard, which looks just like it sounds.
4. Black algae in pool, which is by far the most difficult to remove from a pool but thankfully also somewhat less common.

Is Pool Algae Harmful?

For the most part, no. However, certain types of algae in pools may be capable of stinging your skin and interfering with your plans to enjoy your pool. Many pool owners wonder, can you swim with algae in pool? It’s best to avoid swimming in a pool with visible algae to prevent skin irritation and other potential issues.

How to Prevent Pool Algae?

1. Chlorine:Chlorine is one of the most effective ways to prevent pesky pool algae — this is one of the many reasons why so many pool owners use it. One tell-tale sign of your pool lacking chlorine is green water or, you guessed it, algae clumps.
2. Keep an Eye on Your Pool pH:Algae thrive in water with high pH levels. One way to keep a bloom at bay is by ensuring that your pool water’s pH is under 7.6.
3. Clean Your Pool Filter:Having a clean filter at all times is another great way to prevent algae. Depending on your filter type, you may need to change it to a backwash setting or clean its cartridge on a regular basis.
4. Ensure Your Pool Has Proper Circulation:Water jets help ensure that pool water does not remain stagnant. If you have noticed a suspicious uptick in algae blooms, chances are that your jets are not functioning properly.
5. Use a Preventative Algaecide:In some cases, the use of an algaecide can help prevent blooms in your pool, especially when you use them in small doses when the conditions of your pool are otherwise normal.

Things might get complicated so it is highly recommended to call the pool experts for regular maintenance services.

How to Destroy Pool Algae?

Follow these simple steps to get rid of algae in the swimming pool:

• ‍Identify Your Algae Type:Not all pool algae are created equally, and before you start to effectively destroy an algae bloom, it is ideal to determine the type of algae you are dealing with. While green algae in pools are the most common, different types of algae (such as mustard algae, pink algae, or black algae) require different treatments.‍
• Shocking the Water:“Shocking” the pool water involves adding a large dose of chlorine to the pool to change the composition of its water. It will generally remove spots of algae within 1-3 days.‍
• Brush the Bottom of Your Pool:Using a large brush to clean the bottom and sides of your pool’s liner can help break up algae blooms, making it possible for you to rectify the situation faster. You can also use a vacuum for the same purposes.‍
• Use a Flocculant:A flocculant works by clumping your algae together so that it is easier to vacuum or sweep up. However, although this can visibly remove algae, it does not also remove the conditions that algae bloom in, so it will be important to follow the use of a flocculant with another more aggressive treatment.

Read Also: Should I Hire a Company to do Pool Maintenance?

How to get rid of Green Algae in Pool?

1. Shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine.
2. Brush the walls and floor of the pool to remove algae.
3. Use a pool vacuum to remove debris.
4. Run the filter continuously until the water clears.

How to get rid of Yellow(Mustard) Algae in Pool?

1. Apply a specialized mustard algae treatment.
2. Shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine.
3. Brush and vacuum the pool thoroughly.
4. Clean or replace the pool filter.

How to get rid of Pink Algae in Pool?

1. Use a pink algae treatment or algaecide.
2. Shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine.
3. Brush affected areas and vacuum the pool.
4. Maintain proper chlorine levels and clean the filter.

How to get rid of Black Algae in Pool?

1. Use a heavy-duty algaecide designed for black algae.
2. Brush the algae spots vigorously with a stiff pool brush.
3. Shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine.
4. Use a flocculant to clump the algae and vacuum it up.
5. Maintain high chlorine levels and clean the filter frequently.

Aria Pools: Your Pool Maintenance Experts in Lower Mainland

At Aria Pools, we understand the challenges that come with maintaining a pristine swimming pool. Be it concrete or fiberglass, our pool maintenance services are designed to keep your pool in top condition, ensuring you never have to deal with stubborn pool algae again. Whether you need regular pool maintenance in Vancouver or professional advice on how to get rid of algae in your pool, our team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation. Let Aria Pools take care of your pool so you can enjoy a clean, algae-free swimming experience.