How to Get Rid of Algae in Pool Quickly and Effectively

Algae not only looks terrible, but it can also be a health hazard. Knowing how to quickly and effectively remove algae from pools is essential.

There are various methods for killing algae in your pool. One way is using chlorine, but the type of algae you need removed determines which method should be used.

Chlorine

Algae growth in swimming pools is a common issue. These green or floating particles require multiple chemicals and several days to eliminate, often due to lack of maintenance.

Chlorine is the most efficient way to eliminate algae. Chlorine is commonly used as a disinfectant in residential and commercial pools.

Chlorine is an aggressive chemical that will quickly eliminate most types of algae. Unfortunately, it can also cause eye irritation and bleach-sensitive swimming apparel.

Maintain the chemical balance in your pool water to keep it clear and safe for swimming. If the chlorine level drops too low, your pool may become cloudy and unfit.

The amount of chlorine you must add daily depends on your pool’s size and type of algae. Ideally, keep your chlorine levels between 3-5 ppm.

Algaecide

Algaecide is an efficient chemical treatment for controlling algae that may grow in your pool. It can help keep your swimming pool clear all season long when used correctly.

Algaecide is not the only way to prevent algae blooms; proper water chemistry and running your pool filter regularly will also help safeguard swimmers’ health while decreasing the likelihood of bacterial infections.

If your pool is prone to green and black algae growth, treating it with chlorine and an effective algaecide as soon as possible is best. If the issue persists, regular algaecide applications may be necessary to maintain your pool’s clear condition.

Algaecide treatment can protect the water from future outbreaks and is especially helpful if your area has high metal concentrations in its waters. BioGuard’s copper-free non-foaming algaecide will fight algae blooms and prevent them from starting in the first place.

Brushing

Algae growth is a shared pool issue caused by low chlorine levels, inefficient filtration systems, and insufficient water circulation. To avoid this issue, have an established maintenance schedule and avoid algae-causing chemicals to keep your pool clear, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.

Brushing your pool walls and floor is an efficient way to loosen algae and other contaminants that have adhered to its surface. Make sure to thoroughly brush all surfaces of your pool (walls, steps, and floor) at least once every week for the best results.

When brushing algae away, be careful not to over-brush. Overbrushing can damage your pool’s surface if it has plaster, gunite, or concrete construction. Depending on what material your pool is made from, use either a nylon or wire brush.

Vacuuming

Algae growth is a common issue that can cause your pool’s water to appear cloudy, green, or black. Left unchecked, algae can damage the surface of your pool if left untreated.

Fortunately, there are plenty of methods to eliminate algae in your pool. One of the most efficient is vacuuming regularly.

Vacuuming helps prevent clogged filters and keeps your water clear, balanced, and free of dirt and debris. You can use either a manual or automatic pool vacuum for this task.

You can also add pool flocculant to your water. This will quickly solidify and compact algae into small particles for vacuum machines to pick up.

Depending on your system type, this can be done manually (waste) or automatically through your filter (suction-side). In either case, set the multiport valve to its Waste setting, so that dirty water doesn’t enter your pool through return lines.