Algae is a very common issue with swimming pools that can not only destroy their aesthetics but can also make the pool surface extra slippery which can lead to accidents.
Regular maintenance and cleaning are the only ways you can get rid of this nuisance. However, not many people are aware of the right way to clean their swimming pools. This leads to algae buildup which quickly takes over the pool turning its water green and posing various health risks.
In this blog, we will help you get rid of algae woes using very simple but effective tips and strategies so stay with us till the end.
Here is all you need to know about cleaning your pool to get rid of algae issues
- What is Algae?
- Main Causes of Algae in Pools
- Swimming Pool Cleaning Procedure to Get Rid of Algae
- Step 1: Check Water Levels
- Step 2: Clean the Pool Filter
- Step 3: Brush it Thoroughly
- Step 4: Shock or Super chlorinate the Pool
- Step 5: Add Algaecide
- Step 6: Brush and Vacuum
- Step 7: Run the Filter
- Step 8: Clean the Filter Again
- Algae Prevention: Useful Tips and Tricks
What is Algae?
Algae are a part of the plant kingdom that uses the sun, water, and CO2 to make their food. These fast-growing species cling to the floors, walls, and especially swimming pool surfaces where they can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites.
Algae are found in dark green, green, blue-green, and yellowish-green colors and their slimy nature leads to a change in the color of the pool water.
Another common form is the black algae which is mostly bacteria that doesn’t float. Instead, it sticks to the rough surfaces and in some cases can even penetrate and grow roots.
Main Causes of Algae in Pools
The following are the main causes of algae in swimming pools
- Pool water where pH, chlorine, and alkalinity are out of balance.
- Filtration flaws like low flow, dead spots, and clogging.
- Not brushing and vacuuming the pool water regularly.
- Pets in the pools for a long time.
- Contaminated toys, swimsuits, and regular clothes in pools.
- Fertilizers used near your pool for grass, trees, or plants.
Swimming Pool Cleaning Procedure to Get Rid of Algae
The presence of algae can be detrimental to your swimming pool. As soon as you notice it, make it a top priority to remove it from the pool to prevent permanent damage.
Here are a few steps you can follow to rid your swimming pool of harmful algae
Step 1: Check Water Levels
Get a quality pool water test kit to check the water for chemical levels. Measure things like pH, chlorine content, and stabilizer level to see if you need to add more chemicals or not.
In a well-maintained and algae-free pool, the free chlorine level is about 1-3 ppm while the pH is set at 7.2-7.8. You can also measure the alkalinity and hardness of the water to ensure they are at 80-120 ppm and 250-400 ppm respectively.
If the values don’t fall in the ranges given above add more chemicals or dilute the water to make the level right.
Step 2: Clean the Pool Filter
Algae, bacteria, debris, etc. tend to plug your pool filter. This disrupts the water flow and promotes the growth of algae. This is why you need to clean and backwash the filter to ensure the system is working at all times.
Step 3: Brush it Thoroughly
Algae can cling to the surface of the pool forming a layer that cannot be removed with chemicals alone. Get a pool brush with a telescoping pole and use it on walls, steps, and floor of the pool.
If you have black algae, it can stick to the surface strongly. In this case, we recommend brushing the pool aggressively. The goal here is to remove the algae layer so that it is exposed to the pool chemicals.
Step 4: Shocking or Superchlorination
Shocking or superchlorination refers to the addition of calcium hypochlorite, dihclor, or some other chlorine-based chemical that raises the chlorine level in the water leading to the destruction of algae and unwanted bacteria.
The best time to shock the pool is at dusk or at night. Sunlight tends to burn off the chlorine liquid shock quickly which leaves very little room for this chemical to do its job.
Step 5: Add Algaecide
Algaecides are known to kill algae and prevent their growth in pools. Choose an algicide that works faster and avoid over-application. Applying more than the recommended amount can affect the water quality negatively.
After shocking the pool, wait for 24 hours and then add some algaecide to the pool. You need to let it circulate in the pool for about 24 hours for it to work its magic.
Step 6: Brush and Vacuum
After 24 hours following the application of algaecide, brush the entire pool one more time to remove algae spots and roots. After that, you can use a skimmer to gather debris and leaves from the pool.
Finally, you can vacuum to remove dead algae, debris, and bacteria from the pool surface.
Step 7: Run the Filter
Now let the pool filter run for at least 24 hours or until the water is crystal clear. Try adding a water clarifier to speed up the water-cleaning process.
Step 8: Clean the Filter Again
Finally, take the filter out and clean it one more time to get rid of algae settled in the grooves.
Look clearly for damage in the filter. If needed, replace it so that the pool stays clean.
Algae Prevention: Useful Tips and Tricks
Here are a few useful tips to maintain a healthy swimming pool water supply
- Keep the pH at 7.2-7.8 at all times.
- Pay attention to the chlorine levels and regularly check and maintain these.
- Clean and backwash your pool filter, pump, and skimmer regularly.
- Keep organic matter like leaves, grass, bugs, twigs, etc. out of the pool.
- After every heavy rain or long use of the pool, make sure to shock it.
- Use some recommended algae preventive products.
- Brush and vacuum the pool regularly.
Conclusion
Algae in the pool can be a really frustrating and annoying thing that can ruin this beautiful and fun part of your property. In order to remove this issue, you need to take all the preventative measures like regular cleaning, maintaining proper water levels and pH, filter cleaning or replacement, etc.
If you still find algae in your pool then immediately follow the steps we have listed above to get rid of this issue before it gets out of hand.
By regularly cleaning your pool and paying attention to maintenance, you can easily avoid the accumulation of algae and keep your pool ready for use at all times.
You can contact us at GlobalEX to have your swimming pool professionally cleaned to get rid of Algae and other pool contaminants in Dubai, UAE.