How to Get Rid of Yellow Mustard Algae in Swimming Pools
Perhaps the most frightening of algae seen growing in your pool is yellow mustard algae. It is the most difficult to remove, and re-growth is common without proper pool maintenance. Its tiny size lends itself to easily passing through sand filters and finding its way to your pool floor, while it is also resistant to normal chlorine levels. Treat yellow mustard algae with numerous algaecide treatments, if necessary, to eradicate it in conjunction with other yellow algae-fighting methods. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Pool vacuum
- Steel wire brush or plastic bristle brush
- Chlorine enhancers
- All-purpose algaecide
Instructions
-
-
1
Brush the algae firmly with a stiff wire brush. If your pool liner is vinyl, use a stiff plastic brush to avoid damage.
-
2
Place your pool's filter valve on the "waste" position and vacuum your pool. This will flush some of the loosened algae into the pool drain.
-
-
3
Check your pool's pH level. Adjust to 7.2 if necessary to help rid your pool of yellow mustard algae.
-
4
Use chlorine enhancers for added yellow algae-busting power. Follow the product's manufacturer instructions for best results. Yellow mustard algae is resistant to normal chlorine levels, so upping your pool's chlorine levels will help prevent re-infestation.
-
5
Turn off your pool pump and treat algae spots with an all-purpose algaecide. Copper-based and polymer algaecides are two algaecides that are generally effective on all algae types. Follow the algaecide manufacturer's instructions for correct dosage. Leave dissolved algaecide on algae spots overnight.
-
6
Turn your water filter back on, set it on "waste" and vacuum your pool again. Check your pool's pH levels again and adjust if necessary. Repeat steps as needed for severe algae infestations.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Use chlorine tablets to spot-treat yellow mustard algae on non-vinyl lined pools only.
Shine lights on algae spots at night as yellow mustard algae thrives in shade.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty Images
