Pool Algaecides: What They're For And Why You Should Use Them

What Causes Pool Algae?

Algae can accumulate on and in your pool very quickly if the pool is not cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. Algae can come in different types and colors such as black, yellow, green, brown and pink. Besides looking horrible, algae is bad for your pool as it causes the pH level of the water in your pool to rise and it slowly eradicates chlorine from your pool. An effective way to eliminate algae from your pool is to purchase algaecide and use it in your pool.

Pool algae is caused and exacerbated by low levels of chlorine and lack of water circulation as well as too much heat. Once algae takes hold in your pool, it is very time-consuming and frustrating to try to get rid of it. Here are some more tips on what pool algaecide is and why you should use it.

How To Get Rid Of Algae

The method used for getting rid of pool algae depends partly on what kind of algae it is. You can determine the type of algae by the color. Some types of algaecide work better than others on one type of algae or another, so it's important to do your research. Also, some types of algaecide require the use of or work better with pool shock used before, during, or after algaecide treatment. Because it is so easy to get confused and pool algae is so frustrating to deal with, it's a good idea to call your pool supplies company and describe your problem so you can get their feedback on how best to treat your type of pool algae.

There are different types of algaecides available and you should be aware of these: copper based and the quat algaecides. The former uses copper to get rid of algae and works well with green and mustard colored algae.

The quat are actually quaternary ammonium compounds which eradicate algae in a different way than copper algaecides. These will not cause your pool to stain and so they are a better choice when compared to copper algaecides. They may, however, cause foaming if not used properly.

You should use a pool clarifier if your pool water becomes cloudy and the pool filter system is unable to de-cloud it. The cloudiness in the pool is caused by the debris that may be in the pool. Some of the debris particles may be too small to be cleared by the pool filter.

Pool Algae Tips

The best way to deal with pool algae is to prevent it from happening in the first place. The best way to prevent algae is to use a pool algaecide on a weekly basis. The label on the algaecide will tell you how much to use for preventative maintenance. Algaecide used for preventative measures does not have to be as strong as algaecide used to treat existing algae, but you do have to use it regularly. If you can't remember to use pool algaecide weekly, try a 90-day algaecide and plan application on your calendar. Also, prevent pool algae by maintaining the right chlorine level in your pool and running the pool pump for at least eight hours per day to circulate the water. You will need to run the pool pump longer on hot days or when the pool is getting a lot of use.