How to Swim in a Pool After Adding Algaecide

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • pH test kit

  • pH up or soda ash

  • pH down or muriatic acid

  • Algaecide

  • Pool pump

  • Chlorine test kit

Algae can quickly overtake a beautiful pool when chlorine leves drop too low.

Algaecide is a part of a pool sanitation schedule that protects swimmers from harmful organisms. Used properly, it makes the pool water safer for swimming and causes no harm. Use a chlorine shock product to kill algae and an algaecide to prevent reinfestation. For best results, add algaecide in the morning on a sunny day to increase algae uptake during peak growth periods.

Advertisement

Step 1

Use a pH test kit according to label directions to check the pH of the pool water. Adjust the pH by adding acid or pH down if the pH is above 7.6. Add soda ash or pH up if the pH reading is below 7.4.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Add the algaecide around the outside edge of the pool. Turn on the pool pump and circulate the water for one hour.

Advertisement

Step 3

Run the pH test again. Readjust the pH if necessary to bring it into the 7.4 to 7.6 range. Circulate the water for one hour after adding chemicals.

Step 4

Test the chlorine levels. The pool is ready for swimming once the chlorine drops below 3 ppm. Maintain the chlorine levels between 1 and 3 ppm to prevent algae regrowth.

Tip

Use a chlorine shock product to kill algae. Add algaecide to prevent regrowth.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

references