Have you ever lifted your pool cover to find a murky, green surprise? Don’t worry you’re not alone. Green pools are a common headache for Aussie pool owners, especially during our scorching summers.
The culprit? Typically, it’s algae. While chlorine is your pool’s cleaning barrier, keeping unwanted guests like algae out, even a brief dip in levels can lead to an algae boom. That’s why keeping tabs on your chlorine is crucial it’s easier to prevent a green pool than to fix one.
But if you’re already staring at a green lagoon where your crystal-clear pool used to be, don’t panic. With the right approach, you can evict those algae tenants and reclaim your swimming pool.
5 Simple Steps to Clean Algae from Your Pool
Ready to reclaim your pool from its green invaders? Follow these five steps to send algae packing and get your pool sparkling again.
- Take out your automatic pool cleaner to prepare for manual cleaning.
- Inspect your filter for any issues or malfunctions. Repair any problems immediately, as a properly functioning filter is crucial for removing algae.
- Use a pool brush to scrub the walls and floor thoroughly. This dislodges algae, making it easier to filter out. Rake up any debris from the pool bottom and empty all skimmer and pump baskets.
- After brushing, backwash your filter to remove the loosened algae and debris. This cleans out your filter and prepares it for the final step.
- Set the multiport valve back to the filter position and turn on the pump. Let it run continuously for at least 24 hours to filter out the remaining algae and clear the water.
Depending on how green your pool was, it might take a day or two to see crystal clear results. But stick with it—your perfect pool is just around the corner.
Tailored Solutions Based on Severity
Not all green pools require the same treatment. The severity of algae growth determines the approach needed. Here’s how to tackle different levels of algae infestation:
Dark Green Pool (Bottom Not Visible)
When your pool resembles a murky pond, take these steps: First, adjust the pH to between 7.0 and 7.4. Next, add 2kg of purifier, ensuring you dissolve it in water first if you have a vinyl pool. Then, pour 2.5L of pool algaecide around the edge of the pool. Keep the filter running for at least 24 hours. If the pool hasn’t turned milky after 4 hours, add another 2kg of purifier.
Be prepared for some cloudiness afterwards – this is just the dead algae. Once the water clears, test for phosphates and treat as needed to prevent future algae growth.
Mid-Range Green Pool
For pools that are noticeably green but not completely opaque, the treatment is more straightforward. Simply add 2kg of purifier and 2.5L of pool algaecide. Then run your filter continuously for 24 hours. This should be sufficient to clear the algae and restore your pool’s clarity.
Light Green Pool
If you’ve caught the algae growth early, kudos to your vigilance. To nip it in the bud, add 500g of purifier, 1L of long-life algaecide, and either 1 Sparkle Tab or 200ml of Clarifier. Allow your filter to run for 24 hours to complete the treatment.
Remember, these chemical treatments should be handled with care. Always follow the dosage instructions precisely and avoid mixing different chemicals.
By matching your treatment to the severity of algae growth, you’ll efficiently restore your pool’s cleanliness and prevent future outbreaks.
Filter-Specific Instructions
Different types of pool filters require slightly different approaches when dealing with algae. Here’s how to handle the two main types of filters during your algae treatment process:
Cartridge Filters
If your pool uses a cartridge filter, you’ll need to pay extra attention to the pressure gauge during treatment. As you use clarifiers and algaecides, the dead algae can quickly clog up your filter cartridge. Keep an eye on the pressure gauge – when it reaches a high level, it’s time for some maintenance.
Remove the cartridge and give it a thorough rinse. This will clear out the accumulated algae and debris, allowing your filter to work more efficiently.
Sand and Glass Media Filters
For those with sand or glass media filters, the process is a bit different. After you’ve completed your algae treatment and the water is looking clearer, it’s crucial to give your filter a good clean.
Start by backwashing the filter thoroughly. This will remove a significant amount of the dead algae and other particles trapped in the filter media. Once you’ve backwashed, it’s time to give your filter some extra care. Use a specialised filter cleaner to really get into the nooks and crannies of your filter media. This deep clean will ensure your filter is in top shape to keep your pool crystal clear moving forward.
How To Prevent A Green Pool In The Future
Keeping your pool algae-free is much easier than dealing with a full-blown green outbreak. Here are some key practices to help you maintain a crystal-clear pool all season long:
Daily Skimming
Make it a habit to skim your pool’s surface daily. Use your pool net to remove leaves, twigs, and other floating debris. It’s much simpler to scoop out this material before it sinks to the bottom.
Regular Water Testing
Don’t wait for your pool to turn green before checking its chemical balance. Take a water sample to your local pool shop for a monthly computer analysis. These tests can detect imbalances early, allowing you to adjust your pool chemistry before algae can take hold. Many pool shops offer this service for free.
Maintain Proper Chlorine Levels
Chlorine is your pool’s first line of defence against algae. Keep your chlorine level between 2.0 and 4.0 ppm (parts per million). This range is optimal for preventing algae growth while keeping the water safe for swimming. Test your chlorine levels at least twice a week during peak swimming season, and adjust as needed.
By following these best practices, you will greatly reduce the chances of waking up to a green pool.
Dealing with a green pool can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it’s entirely manageable. By following these steps and maintaining good pool care habits, you can say goodbye to algae and hello to crystal-clear waters.
Contact BWT to find out more about more permanent pool cleaning solutions, such as our top-of-the-line range of pool cleaning robots, available at pool shops across Australia.
