Pool Maintenance for Algae

Algae are microscopic plant organisms that live in the water. They are one of the most common living organisms. They can be found in most bodies of water including swimming pools. The growth of algae in pools can be very unsightly. It gives you the feeling that you are swimming in dirty water, which is exactly the case. The growth of algae also encourages the growth of bacteria in the pool. To prevent the growth of algae you must practice proper pool management.

Chlorine Shock Treatment

To eliminate algae from the pool the water must have high levels of chlorine in it. This method is also known as chlorine shock treatment. The recommended dose is 3 liters for every 10,000 liters of pool water. This will raise the chlorine level to 5 PPM. It is high enough to kill any algae or bacteria in the water. Check the level of chlorine in the water regularly to prevent algae from growing back. You can use a special test kit to test the chlorine level.

To get rid of the algae efficiently, you can add an algaecide into the pool water. Do this in 24 to 48 hours after the application of chlorine. Follow the directions on the label for the proper handling and application of the algaecide.

Monitor Filter Systems

The filter system of the pool must be closely monitored. The filter must be taken out and cleaned regularly. If the pressure rises to 10 psi, it is time to clean out the pool's filter system.

The filter needs to be cleaned out regularly, especially if you are treating the pool for algae. The dead algae can get caught up in the filter. The filter must be washed thoroughly to make sure that there are no dead algae trapped in the filter. It must be disassembled each time it is cleaned. A well maintained filter system will stop the growth of algae in the pool. Poor circulation in the pool is one of the primary causes of recurring growth of pool algae.

Manually Clean the Pool

The sides and bottom of the pool must be brushed regularly to remove any clinging algae. Brush the spots with heavy growths of algae vigorously. Use a stiff brush to effectively remove all the algae from the swimming pool tiles.

After removing the algae with a stiff brush, vacuum the bottom of the pool. You need to vacuum after brushing to remove the algae that have settled to the bottom of the pool. To maintain the cleanliness of the pool, it has to be skimmed each day. Skim off any debris that has fallen into the pool. This debris can settle to the bottom of the pool and rot, thereby promoting the growth of algae.

References

• 3 Ways to Get Rid of Algae

Resources

• Pool Center