If you notice your swimming pool is turning green, yellow, or black, then it is an indication that there are algae growing in the pool water. Now, algae cannot harm you, but the bacteria that feed on algae can.
Thus, instead of spending your time in the pool to feel refreshed and relaxed, you are actually exposing your self to these harmful bacteria that can cause illnesses.
In this article, we will tackle about the different types of algae and the various ways to get rid of and prevent the growth of algae in your swimming pool.
3 Types of Pool Algae
You can identify the presence of algae in the water when you notice a change in color. There are three colors that you should watch out for, namely: green, yellow, and black.
Green Algae
The green algae are also known as Chlorophyta. These are the most common type of pool algae and are the easiest one to kill.
Pool experts discover that poor filtration system and lack of proper sanitation are the two main causes of green algae in the pool. These organisms might come from your swimwear, toys, and other pool accessories.
Therefore, it is best to take a shower before getting in the pool, and always wash your swim wear every after use. Using toys and pool accessories should also be minimized if possible. Lastly, schedule a pool cleaning regularly to cut the growth of algae immediately.
Yellow Algae
The yellow algae, on the other hand, can sometimes appear as yellowish brown and mustard colors. They usually look like pollen or sand in the corners of the pool.
Just like the green algae, poor filtration, lack of water circulation, and poor sanitation are the main culprit of the growth of mustard/yellow algae.
Unfortunately, this type of algae is a bit difficult to kill as they are chlorine-resistant. So, if you are using chlorine to clean your pool, then you might need to consider other methods to get rid of yellow algae completely.
Black Algae
The black algae are actually not algae at all. Experts consider this as a type of bacteria that make their own food.
Among the three types, the black algae are the hardest to kill. The bacteria’s roots dig deep into the pool’s flooring, especially in fiberglass pools or if your pool is made of concrete floors.
In addition, you really need a strong pool chemical cleaner to get rid of black algae for good. Consistent cleaning and proper pool care are also highly recommended.
How to Get Rid of Algae in a Swimming Pool
1. Use a pool vacuum cleaner.
If you don’t have the time to clean your pool manually, then you’d be glad to know that there are automatic and robotic vacuum cleaner to clean the sides and floor of your pool. There are above ground pool vacuum cleaners, and there are also inground pool cleaners.
2. Always test the pool water.
Unbalanced pool water can be the cause of the growth of algae in the water. This is why experts suggest that you test the water and make sure that it is well-balanced.
Pool algae like to thrive in water with high level of pH and alkalinity.
3. Perform a Shock Treatment Regularly.
Shocking a pool is one good way to prevent the growth of algae in the water. This method also helps add the needed chlorine and chemicals to destroy the build-up of chloramines in the water. Chloramines are a sign that the water is unproperly treated.
4. Invest in a good filtration system.
Remember, a poor filtration system is one of the common causes of the growth of algae in the pool. Hence, it is only understandable that you should be very careful in installing and maintaining the pool filter.
The cartridge pool filter is what most pool professionals recommend. This filter can screen out and filter twice the amount of dirt and debris that the sand filter can do.
5. Use algaecide.
Algaecide is a copper-based chemical compound that is used to prevent and control the growth of algae, slime mold, and fish pathogens in your pool.
You just have to apply the recommended amount of algaecide to the water, leave it for 24 hours, and then vacuum the pool.
Conclusion
Keeping your pool water clean is just a piece of cake if you know what to do and know the right products and tools to use. We hope that this article has helped you in some ways and input some valuable information regarding pool cleaning.
Thanks for dropping by and have a great day!
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