Swimming Pool Maintenance: Algae Types and Treatment

Algae may come across as an unassuming single-celled plant form, but this microscopic terror can wreak havoc on any pool.  Properly maintaining a pool is best when it comes to getting rid of pool algae, but certain situations may arise which allow algae to multiply by the millions and begin to turn your pool all different shades of the rainbow.  Below are different colors of algae as well as how to treat it so that you can get back to enjoying your pool.

How to Get Rid Of Green Pool Water

• “Green” algae is the most common form to plague your pool and can be found stuck on walls or floating on the water.

Treatment: Ensure that your pool pH is at the right levels.  Thoroughly brush the pool, shock the water (the chlorine should be raised to 30,000ppm) and add algaecide 60 afterward.  Repeat the process as necessary.

How To Get Rid Of Pool Algae

• “Black” or “blue-green” algae lurks in the cracks and crevices of a pool’s surfaces and is particularly common on plaster finishes.  It is accompanied by a heavy slime which shields it from the effects of your pool’s chlorine levels.

Treatment: Test your water chemistry.  Prior to treatment, brush the algae to break through the slime and then shock the pool.  Continue to brush the black algae, and then add a large amount of algaecide 60.

• “Mustard” or yellow-green algae is a chlorine-resistant form of green algae, and often tricks pool owners into believing that dirt or sand is in the bottom of their pool.

Treatment: Treat “mustard” algae the same way you would “black” algae.

 

Shasta Pools is a Phoenix pool builder who provides a variety of services including swimming pool remodeling, commercial pool building, and pool service and repair. Since its establishment in 1967, Shasta has helped over 80,000 families realize their dream of pool ownership. By providing exceptional value, quality craftsmanship and superior customer service, the Shasta team continues to fulfill the corporate mission of astonishing and delighting their customers and exceeding expectations. You can learn more about Shasta Pools & Spas by visiting them online, or by connecting with them on Facebook or Twitter.