An indoor-outdoor pool, while beneficial, does not completely eliminate the risk of pesky pool-owner problems like algae. Swimming pool algae can be less of an issue with a pool enclosure but can still pose as problematic if you do happen to encounter this invasive aquatic plant. But don’t panic! Algae is fairly common, and there’s lots you can do to solve this prevalent problem. Algae in a swimming pool can be one of three types: Green Algae, Black Algae, and Mustard Algae.
Here is a short guide to removing swimming pool algae.
Green Algae: This is the most common type of pool algae. Every pool owner usually encounters this type of algae at least once. Green pool algae can float at the bottom of the pool or stick to the walls in green patches. Don’t worry too much about this algae, as it can be removed easily. Any basic sanitizer for swimming pools will help you to get rid of it. The main cause of the green algae is a lack of sanitization and water filtration.
Mustard Algae: Mustard Algae is also known as yellow algae, and gets its name from its yellow colour. Unlike green algae, mustard Algae accumulates in areas of the pool that get the least amount of sunlight. This is another type of algae that pool owners commonly see. This type of algae can cause a bit of trouble upon trying to remove it as you’ll need to employ harsher chemicals such as chlorine.
Black Algae: This is the third and the most stubborn type of algae. Thankfully, this type of algae is very rare in swimming pools. Black algae appears dark in colour and can look like black spots on the pool wall. The algae usually appears in places that aren’t receiving an adequate amount of sunlight. But how to remove them? Removing this type of algae can be challenging. This can be done with a pool cleaning brush and a harsher cleaner and/or acid.
If you have noticed that your swimming pool water has turned green in colour all of a sudden, there’s no need to fret. The most common reason for this to happen is a lack of cleanliness or lack of chlorine for sanitization. Another very common reason for green pool water is an accumulation of algae on the swimming pool floor or walls. Proper water circulation and regular cleaning is the best preventive measure against these problems in your swimming pool. Investing in a retractable roof or pool enclosure can also reduce the risk of algae problems.
You’ll need to start by cleaning the pool water. You can do this by shocking your swimming pool by adding large amounts of chlorine, either in liquid or granular form. It is important to make sure that the chlorine you use is chemically unstable.
Once you’ve shocked your pool water, you can expedite the chlorine treatment. This can be done by lowering the pH of the water, which usually goes up due to the accumulation of algae. You can do this using one of two methods: with pH tablets or liquid hydrochloric acid. This allows the chlorine to act faster in clearing the pool.
Continue this process for 24 hours for best results. Make sure you clean the pool filter too.
After three days of treatment, be sure to check the water’s colour and test the pH.
To prevent future problems, be sure to clean your pool regularly. This can be as easy as making a habit of cleaning your pool when you clean the surrounding patio or sunroom. To minimize the chance of re-occurrence, consider investing in a pool dome or swimming pool enclosure.
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