Swimming Pool Algae

Swimming pools get attacked by algae bloom at least once in a season. Removing algae from a pool is a difficult task as the entire area gets the covered by algal growth if precautions are not taken at initial stages. Growth of algae can take place overnight as algal spores are carried easily by winds, rain and other contaminated equipment lying around the pool. Improper circulation of the water also triggers growth of algae on swimming pools. Algae removal process differs according to the nature and type of the growth.

Types of Swimming Pool Algae

Problems regarding swimming pool algae are associated with discoloration and contamination of the water. It makes the water cloudy and thus, the pool becomes inaccessible. It also clogs the sanitation pathways and harbors other pathogens like bacteria and fungus. The different types of algae growing on a swimming pool are:

• The most common variety is green algae, floating freely on water and reducing the clarity of the water. The entire pool gets covered by the green slime.
• Pink algae is actually a bacterial species, appearing as spots over the crevices and corners of the pool, gradually blooming over the entire pool.
• The most damaging strain is the black algae. It appears like pencil tips , which has dense roots. Removing black algae is very difficult.
• Mustard algae is yellow in color and forms sheet all over the pool. It is resistant against chlorine and chances of re-infection are frequent.

Elimination of Algae

Algae control is more often carried out with algaecides. Chemicals are employed for removing them. Many products are available in the market that are manufactured according to the density of algae growth. Swimming pool algae removal is difficult with single hand. You have to employ an expert for the process. A few measures for algal removal are written below. Check for these compounds when you buy one for your swimming pool.

• The most effective compounds for algaecides and algaestats are polymers, quaternary ammonium compounds, silver and copper based compounds. Silver compounds are more effective for pink algae while quaternary ammonium compounds greatly prevent attack of algae. Follow the swimming pool maintenance tips and use a sequestering agent while incorporating silver and copper compounds.
• A chlorine shock treatment is also a wonderful way to control the growth of algae in pool water. The chlorine level of the pool is raised above 5ppm for killing the algae. Once they are killed, the normal chlorine level is optimized. Pool shock treatment is carried out with chlorine enhancers that boost the level of hypochlorites when added separately to the chlorine level of the pool.
• Potassium tetraborate is an excellent compound manufactured by Proteam Supreme brand. It acts for preventing formation of fuel energy required for the growth of algae. They show static action against algae by ceasing utilization of carbon dioxide. Once it is incapable of growth, it gradually dies.
• Products containing lanthanum are also very effective in killing algae. Spaying this compound prevents algae from utilizing phosphate compounds required for growth. Use this product only if phosphate deposition is the key reason behind the growth of algae. You can purchase this product from swimming pool maintenance stores.

I hope the methods for removing swimming pool algae is now clear to you. Vacuum the swimming pool once the algae is dead. Also remember to clear the filters so that no trace of algae is left behind. Make your pool with clear water free from any contamination. Restore the pH and chlorine density of the pool. Make it a point to maintain the hygiene and cleanliness of your pool after elimination of algal growth. Check for the compounds enlisted in the content above before buying a product for your swimming pool.