Swimming Pool Troubleshooting Series: Attacking The Algae
Owning a swimming pool can be a real joy, there is plenty to enjoy, especially if you intend to keep it heated all year round. However, you need to look after your pool and the pool water, if you see algae appearing then it’s a big sign that you need to address the chemical levels in your pool and bolster your swimming pool maintenance.
Algae is not generally a devastating thing as it occurs naturally with sunlight, producing food. The algae does present a danger though as it is essentially waste products from that process, this can attract other unwanted bacteria problems and it’s not attractive to look at to say the least.
The Different Kinds Of Algae
There are several different types of algae and you will usually see them referred to by their colour.
Green Algae – It’s proper name is Chlorophyta and it’s the most common type of algae which people see appearing on their pools as a slimy scummy substance. You may first see this green slime forming in small pockets, possibly around the steps in secluded corners, but don’t be fooled – it will spread rapidly. Your pool can be taken over very quickly after you first spot the algae so it’s a good idea to react straight away.
If you brush the algae it will simply break it down, it will not make your pool any cleaner. The best way to get on top of the problem is to give your pool the shock treatment or use an algaecide. Maintenance is also key, check your chemical balance regularly and clean your filter to stay on top of the issue.
Yellow Algae – This algae also gets its name from its colour, but it’s proper name is Phaeophyta, though you might hear it referred to as mustard algae. There is a similar texture with this algae to the green variety but it is a little hardier.
Scrubbing won’t move much with this type of algae, once again you need a good algaecide or superchlorination and some proper maintenance for your pool.
Black Algae – If the previous two algaes seemed daunting then you don’t want to find black algae in your pool. This variant doesn’t need the same slimy consistency as it attaches itself onto all surfaces with a real hardy bond.
Brushing, but with something more heavy duty this time, can help to break the algae down somewhat, you’ll need to use an algaecide to get rid of it permanently though. Once again, if you want to avoid a repeat of this algae cropping up you should keep on top of pool maintenance.
Pink Algae – Despite being referred to as an algae, this pink variant is actually a fungus formation. For this reason it is a little easier to get rid of, you simply need to brush and keep the pool sanitised to prevent a build up occurring.
If you have an algae problem in your pool and would like help with your swimming pool maintenance then simply contact us at H2O Swimming Pools today. We’ll be happy to arrange a schedule with you in which we can clean and maintain your pool so that it’s usable all year round.