How to Keep Algae Out of Your Pool

Algae is a simple plant that grows on standing water or materials that are constantly wet. Algae can become an unsightly large green blob. It can accumulate on the water surface or on the walls of your pool. Certain types of blue-green algae can be toxic to animals and humans. Products have been developed to kill algae and keep your pool safe. Use of these products and some preventative maintenance will keep your pool clean and safe.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pool chemicals
• Algaecide
• Pool cover

1. Disinfect and sanitize the pool water. Use a chlorine-based solution made for swimming pools to maintain the water chemistry.This will prevent an environment for development of algae.

2. Add an algaecide to kill any outbreaks of algae that occur. This step may not always be necessary, especially if the water is kept sanitized.

3. Cover your pool when not in use. This is especially important when it rains. Rainwater can alter the water chemistry. A pool cover also prevents leaves or other debris from entering the pool.

4. Remove any material that does fall into the water as soon as possible. Clean out the filter and remove any debris that has accumulated.

5. Clean all toys or floating devices before using them in the pool. Disinfect any items that have been used in a lake, pond or stream.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not add too much pool sanitizer because it can cause health problems.

References

• Swimming pool maintenance