How to Treat Black Mold in Salt Water Pool
Black spots in a saltwater pool are indicative of a black algae problem. The spots are often mistaken for mold, but the actual culprit is a strong-rooted algae that is one of the tougher problems to eradicate from swimming pools. The spots range in color from black to dark green or blue, and are smaller than a dime. The algae usually appear in tile cracks and grout lines. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- pH test strips
- Muriatic acid or soda ash
- Firm pool brush
- Toothbrush
- Vacuum or pool leaf rake
Instructions
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Test the pool water's pH level using the test strips to find out if the pool's chemical composition needs adjustment. Place the strip in the water and wait for the strip to indicate the pH level. The ideal pH range for salt water pools is between 7.2 and 7.8.
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Adjust the pH using chemicals found at pool supply stores. If the pH is too high, add diluted Muriatic acid according to the manufacturer's directions. Increase the pool's pH level by adding soda ash, or sodium carbonate, according to the manufacturer's directions.
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Add an algaecide purchased at any pool supply store. The amount depends on the size of your pool as well as the extent of the black algae problem. Read the product's directions for use listed on the label to determine the correct amount. Allow the algaecide to sit in the pool for five to six hours.
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Use a firm swimming pool wall brush or scrubbing pad to loosen the black algae from the walls of the pool. Use a firm toothbrush to reach small places where algae has grown. Continue scrubbing the perimeter of the pool until all of the algae is loose from the pool's walls.
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Vacuum the pool to remove the black algae remnants. If a vacuum is not available, remove the dead algae using a swimming pool leaf rake.
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Repeat the brushing and mold removal steps until the pool is free from all black algae. For severe black algae problems, a reapplication of the algaecide is also necessary.
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Prevent future growth of mold and algae in your saltwater pool by properly maintaining the pool's pH level. Test your pool's water weekly and adjust the water's pH if necessary. In addition, leaves and dirt contribute to mold and algae growth in swimming pools. Clean your pool often to remove any algae causing debris.
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Tips & Warnings
Vinyl pools have more delicate liners than concrete, gunite or tiled pools. For algae growth on this type of pool, use a softer brush to avoid tearing the vinyl liner.
