How to Prevent Algae in Your Swimming Pool (Infographic)

Having a swimming pool in your backyard can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and stay cool during the hot summer months. However, one of the biggest challenges pool owners face is keeping the water clean and free of algae. Not only is algae in the pool unsightly, but it can also pose a health risk to those using it. 

In this article and infographic, we’ll discuss what pool algae is, what causes it, the different types of algae, how to get rid of it, and most importantly, how to prevent it from building up in the first place.

What is pool algae?

Pool algae is a type of plant that can grow in swimming pools when the conditions are right. Algae spores can enter the pool from various sources, such as wind, rain, or contaminated pool equipment. Once these spores are in the water, they can quickly multiply and form a green, slimy layer on the pool walls and floor.

What causes algae to build up in a swimming pool?

There are several factors that can contribute to the growth of algae in a swimming pool. One of the most common causes is poor water circulation. If the water is not circulating properly, it can create stagnant areas that are ideal for algae to grow. Other factors include high levels of phosphates, nitrates, and other nutrients that algae feed on, inadequate filtration, and improper pH balance.

Types of algae

Multiple strains of algae can grow in a swimming pool, the most common of which are green algae, yellow/mustard algae, and black algae. 

Many of us are probably most familiar with green algae that usually appears as a green, slimy layer on the pool walls and floor. Yellow/mustard algae is less common and can appear as a yellowish-brown color on the pool walls and floor. Black algae is the most difficult to get rid of and can appear as black or dark blue-green spots on the pool walls.

How to get rid of algae in your pool

Getting rid of algae in your pool can be a time-consuming and frustrating process, but it is necessary to ensure that your pool stays clean and safe. The first step is to shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine to kill the algae. After shocking the pool, use a pool brush to scrub the walls and floor to remove the dead algae. It may take several treatments to completely get rid of this, especially if it’s black algae.

It’s important that all swimming pool maintenance work is carried out correctly to prevent any damage to the equipment that can either result in costly repairs or leave your swimming pool unusable. The maintenance team at Miller Pools provide a comprehensive list of maintenance services to keep your pool looking and functioning at its best, including testing the chemical balance, water treatments, thorough cleaning, and much more.

How to prevent algae in your pool

Preventing algae from growing in your pool is much easier than getting rid of it. Weekly maintenance from the experts at Miller Pools will help stop algae from building up in your pool in the first place – this includes:

• Keeping the water circulating: Make sure your pool’s filtration system is working properly and run the pump regularly to ensure proper water circulation. We will backwash filters as needed.
• Testing the water regularly: This will include testing the water to make sure it is in balance by checking the pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels in your pool. Proper water chemistry can help prevent algae growth so we will add chemicals when needed.
• Keep the pool clean: We will clean the top and bottom of the pool, removing debris that can contribute to algae growth.
• Shock the pool: Using a shock treatment on your pool once a week will kill any algae spores that may be present in the water.

Algae in a pool can be a frustrating problem for pool owners, but with the right preventative measures, it can be avoided. If you do find algae in your pool, you need to contact an expert as soon as possible before the problem escalates into a major, costly issue. If you are searching for a swimming pool service company in Pasadena, Humble & Atascocita, TX, don’t delay – get in touch with the team at Miller Pools today.