How To Remove Black Algae In A Pool

Posted by  on 22 February, 2016

If you own a pool, you know how frustrating it can be to see spots of black algae on the floor and walls when you’re ready to take a dip. Routine maintenance and upkeep come with having a pool. Many beginner pool owners learn this the hard way.

Sticking with a preventative maintenance plan is the only way to keep bacteria from forming in the water, and from ultimately leading to that dreaded black mass. The pool professionals at Solda Pools want to remind new and existing owners of the importance of proactivity; it is cheaper, less time-consuming, and a whole lot less stressful to prevent problems with your pool than it is to fix them.

With that out of the way, let’s talk about the quickest and most efficient way to get rid of that nasty black algae once and for all.

Black Algae Be Gone

The worst thing about black algae is its built-in survival instincts; its multi-layered structure makes it virtually impossible for chlorine to get rid of. The top layer might be vulnerable depending on the amount and concentration of cleaner you use, but chances are you aren’t going to destroy the algae by simply pouring in more chlorine.

Black algae forms more slowly than other types, but once in place, it’s one of the most indestructible in the face of chlorine. Take it from our seasoned pool specialists, the best way to tackle this kind of algae is to first scrub it thoroughly with a steel bristle brush. This will work to break the algae down, thus exposing its protected underlayers.

Now it’s time to shock your pool with granular chlorine. You’ll also want to include a quart of liquid copper metallic algaecide; this product is specifically formulated to destroy algae of all types, including black. The double duo of chlorine and algaecide are the only way you’re going to get rid of the debris for good. The goal is to increase the chlorine levels to 15 ppm for at least a day. This will give the chemicals plenty of time to attack the algae at its source.

If the algae is not gone within 24 hours, wait another few days before re-shocking the pool. Once the water is clean and the algae gone, pick up a bottle of black algaecide for preventative maintenance purposes.