It does not take long for algae to take hold in the swimming pool and turn the water green, brown or even a mustard yellow and colors in between. Call a contractor if there is pool algae because it can be a nightmare to remove! Algae not only colors the water, but it can discolor the plaster and even get into the pool equipment so when you think the pool is ready to be used — it isn’t.
It doesn’t take long for water to be taken over by algae. Warm days, covered pools, water not circulating and chemicals not being tested can lead to the minute algae and bacteria spores that may be floating harmlessly in the water to take bloom and when it does, it typically requires the skills of a swimming pool contractor form Advanced Pool Care to complete eradicate it.
Prevention is always the best method for keeping algae from blooming in the pool. Being diligent with maintenance, running the pump and filter as long as recommended and testing the water chemistry often is key. That being said, there could be a time that no matter how diligent you are, algae take hold and it is a challenge to remove.
Call a contractor if there is pool algae
What will your pool contractor do to rid the pool of algae and help you get back to swimming? Here are some of the steps:
- The pool contractor will remove all debris — floating and those that have fallen to the bottom of the pool. A leaf net will be used and he will want the pump and filter off so the water isn’t being circulated and the algae stirred up.
- The water chemistry will be tested and the pH and alkalinity levels adjusted. The levels must be within the proper ranges or the water will never clear. Ask your pool contractor what they should be — if you’re interested.
- Super chlorination — aka shocking — will be one of the steps taken. This means there will be gallons and gallons and gallons of chlorine dumped into the pool. If there is no difference the next day, more chlorine will be dumped in. This will be done until the water changes to a cloudy white to clear. There is no risk of putting too much chlorine in at this point.
- The pool will need to be thoroughly brushed and cleaned and vacuumed to remove any algae spores that might still be clinging to the pool
- The filter should be run 24 hours a day and backwashed several times if you’re looking for quick results. Backwashing will get any remaining spores out of the pool. Backwashing does use a LOT of water, but if you’re trying to get rid of algae, it’s necessary. The filter may need to be changed in order to ensure there are no errant spores.
There is no substitute for daily water testing and regular maintenance. You will also need to run the pump and filter for as many hours a day as the pool contractor recommends — sometimes up to twelve hours a day. Give us a call if you’re battling algae — you don’t want to miss any more pool time!
