How to Get Rid Of Pool Algae

First off, what are algae and where do they come from? Algae are living organisms that thrive in bodies of water, using photosynthesis and nutrients found in their surroundings to grow. Spores are everywhere and can be carried into your pool by the wind, rain, or even contaminated swimsuits and pool cleaning tools. Algae blooms can occur within a few hours when the conditions are right. Their growth can be accelerated by nitrates, phosphates, and carbon dioxide. Algae can develop in your pool due to a variety of factors, including insufficient water circulation, inadequate filtration, and unbalanced chemical levels.

Black Algae - This pesky algae strain is one of the toughest pool algae to kill. You may notice black spots stuck to the pool surface; these can be extremely difficult to remove due to the protective layers over the black algae plant. To make it even harder, their roots need to be destroyed or another will grow in its place. Black algae usually are introduced into the pool water by contaminated pool cleaning equipment or from someone who just came back from the beach. Similar to yellow algae, black algae can grow in normal sanitizing levels and proper filtration, making it a tricky opponent.

Pink Algae - This algae is more of a bacteria but can be annoying as well! Pink algae, also known as pink slime, usually shows as streaks in corners and crevices. It’s very rare for it to bloom over an entire pool due to its slow-spreading nature. Popular areas this algae likes to hang out are in low flow and circulation areas. It will attach itself to smooth surfaces, which doesn't bode well when using your pool cleaner or pool brush. 

Once you’ve determined which type of algae you’re dealing with, it’s time to learn how to remove algae from your pool.

• Skim & Vacuum - Our Pool Pros recommend starting out by using a skimmer and your vacuum to remove any large debris floating around your pool. This helps to make it easier to see and reach the rest of your pool to continue the process and prevents those larger pieces from being broken down in the shocking process.
• Brush & Scrub - Next, use a pool brush to vigorously scrub the walls, floor, and any other surfaces where algae are present. Make sure to give your stairs and ladders extra attention during this step! This helps to break up the algae and expose it to the treatment. If you have steps, make sure to pay those extra attention as algae love small crevices and corners.
  • Make sure to scrub extra well when fighting mustard algae, as this algae loves to cling to surfaces.
  • If you are trying to combat black algae, consider using a steel bristle brush. In order for the chemicals to work on this stubborn type of algae, you need to tear through the protective layer. *If you have a vinyl liner, do NOT use a steel bristle brush.

• Lower Your pH - A little Pool Pro secret, lower the pH levels to mid-to-lower sixes. By doing this you’re actually making the water more acidic, which really helps the shock work at a significantly more efficient level.
• Shock Treatment - Next, use the appropriate shock treatments to kill the newly brushed and exposed algae. We recommend using pool shock at approximately 1 lb. per 10,000 gallons of water (check the pool shock manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended dosage).
  • When fighting mustard and black algae, you may need to use higher dosages, up to double or triple the normal amount.
• Filter & Vacuum - After the shock treatment, run your pool filter for the next 24 hours to give your filtration system a chance to remove the algae. Clean the filter to remove any algae that may still be residing there. Remember that if your pool equipment isn’t clean, then your water supply won’t be clean either. Then, use a pool vacuum to suck up the remaining algae. If the algae aren’t completely gone by this point, repeat the previous steps until they are.
  • If your algae bloom was severe, you may want to vacuum prior to running the filter.

• Test & Balance - At  this point, the algae should be history. Make sure you test your water and balance out the water chemistry in order to prevent further outbreaks. Check out our blog on achieving proper water chemistry to learn more.
• Run Your Filter -  The best way to prevent algae from coming back is to run your filter for 24 hours a day. This may cost a little bit initially, but it both helps keep your water clean and is a huge algae deterrent, as algae thrives in stagnant water. In the long run, it’s cheaper and less time-consuming than dealing with an algae bloom.

If at any point you need more power to help get rid of that nasty algae, you can add in one of our algaecide products, such as the Doheny’s Total Algaecide or the Doheny’s Super Algaecide Plus. Not only does Doheny’s Total Algaecide help remove even the most stubborn algae, it also helps prevent algae growth for the next 90 days! Speaking of algae prevention, let’s get into learning how to stop algae from making their return.

Regular pool maintenance routines are crucial to prevent algae growth and ensure a safe swimming experience. Remember, it’s much easier and cheaper to prevent algae than it is to treat it!

• Maintain Proper Water Chemistry - Regularly test and balance the pool water's pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels. This creates an environment less conducive to algae growth.
• Consistent Circulation - Ensure your pool's circulation system is functioning optimally and running as much as possible. Algae thrive in stagnant water, so keeping your water moving helps prevent their growth.
• Sunlight Control - Use pool covers or strategically placed shade structures when possible to limit sunlight exposure. This helps reduce the conditions that encourage algae growth.

• Regular Cleaning - Establish a consistent maintenance routine that includes skimming the pool surface to remove debris, brushing the pool walls and floor to loosen any algae, and vacuuming to eliminate dirt and algae spores. Promptly removing debris helps to eliminate potential nutrients for algae. Regularly clean and backwash the pool filter to ensure optimal filtration.
• Shock Treatments - Periodically perform shock treatments, even if the water appears clear. This helps prevent algae from taking hold and keeps the pool water sanitized.
• Shower Before Swimming - Ensure that swimmers practice good hygiene by showering before entering the pool. This helps to avoid the introduction of contaminants such as algae spores.
• Algaecide Treatments - Various types of algaecides, such as Doheny’s Algaecide and Doheny’s Algaecide 60, are great for prevention of future algae outbreaks. Just pour in the recommended dosage once a week and you’ll be algae-free!