How to Clean and Control Pool Algae

Posted by  on 17 April, 2014

Many water and surface problems in a pool can be easily handled by the pool owner with a bit of education and effort. To help you with the education part, we have put together this handy guide which goes over the most common pool problems and what they look like and offers possible causes as well as solutions.

Green Algae

Description: Green algae is probably the most common pool ailment and can occur pretty easily if your pool is not being regularly cleaned. It causes murky green water and sometimes some growth along the bottom of the pool.

Possible causes:

  • Low sanitizer
  • Poor maintenance
  • Improper water balance
  • Poor circulation

Solution: The first step in solving this problem should be checking the system for any circulation problems. Next, clean the filter of any blockages or buildup of debris. If your pool is full of murky water, test the chemical balance and make sure it is within the right range. If necessary, use a shock treatment or algaecide.

Black Algae

Description: Another common pool problem is black algae which appears as rough, black spots on the bottom of the pool that brush off with some effort.

Possible causes:

  • Low sanitizer
  • Poor maintenance
  • Improper water balance
  • Poor circulation

Solution: As with green algae, start by checking the system and cleaning the filter. Use a vacuum hose to remove the patches of algae from the bottom of the pool and then follow-up with a shock treatment if necessary.

Mustard Algae

Description: Mustard algae appears as a yellowish-gold growth which easily brushes away as well as yellowish-green water.

Possible causes:

  • Low sanitizer
  • Poor maintenance
  • Improper water balance
  • Poor circulation

Solution: The best way to get rid of mustard algae that is growing inside your pool is to brush it away. Follow this with an algaecide to prevent regrowth and clear up yellowish water.

Pink Slime

Description: This pink, slimy growth brushes off easily.

Possible causes:

  • Low sanitizer
  • Poor maintenance
  • Improper water balance
  • Poor circulation

Solution: Check the chemical balance of your pool and correct any fluctuations which may have occurred. Check the circulation system in case there are blockages or problems causing poor circulation. Use a vacuum hose to remove the growth from surfaces and follow with an algaecide for best results.

Water Mold

Description: A less common type of pool mold, water mold appears as a white mucous or tissue paper-like substance on the surface of the water.

Possible causes:

  • Low sanitizer
  • Poor maintenance
  • Improper water balance
  • Poor circulation

Solution: Check your pool’s circulation system and chemical balance. Correct any chemical imbalances and then give your pool a boost with a shock treatment and algaecide. Be sure to clean out the filter before adding chemicals!

Cloudy Water

Description: Hazy or extremely cloudy water or difficulty seeing the pool bottom can be an indication of chemical imbalances.

Possible causes:

  • Poor filtration and circulation
  • Chloramines or low sanitizer
  • Poor water balance
  • Particulate matter

Solution: Begin by checking the pump and filter. Clean the system, vacuum the pool, and run the pump continuously. Use a shock treatment and balance the water chemicals. You may also need to use a filter cleaner and degreases in order to completely remove particulate matter from the system.