How to Remove Algae From an Above-Ground Pool

Removing algae in an above-ground pool takes a little time. Before anyone enters the pool that has algae forming, it should be cleaned to protect the health of the swimmers. A pool that has algae in it is not the safest water to swim in, especially for young children who may swallow some of the water. Severe algae can take a few days to clean, but if you catch it when it starts, it should disappear within a day.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Chlorine
• pH reducer
• pH increaser
• Pool vacuum
• Pool brush
• Pool skimming net
• Pool test kit

1. Brush the walls and steps with the pool brush. Move the debris to the pool bottom for easy removal with the vacuum.

2. Use the skimmer net to remove any debris and floating algae on the water surface.

3. Test the pH level in the pool. The ideal level of pH should be between 7.2 and 7.4. Use the pH increaser or reducer to adjust the pH level.

4. Test the chlorine level and add chlorine if the level has fallen below the ideal level according to the test kit markings. Use enough chlorine according to the directions for the pool size on the bottle of chlorine.

5. Turn on the filter and vacuum the pool bottom. Remove all debris from the bottom. Let the filter run until all signs of algae are removed. This can take from 24 hours to 48 hours.

6. Turn the filter off automatic after the algae have disappeared. Test the pH and chlorine levels again and adjust if needed.

7. Brush the sides of the pool and steps. Run the vacuum again to make sure you have all of the algae spores off the bottom of the pool.

8. Clean out the filters and backwash the pool pump. Check the pH and chlorine levels again and adjust if needed. Return the pump to normal filtration operation.

References

• How to Remove Swimming Pool Algae