What Is the Easiest Way to Remove Algae From a Swimming Pool?

Causes of Algae

• Algae are not uncommon in a swimming pool. Wind, rain and even pets can drop algae spores into pool water. If you don't properly maintain a swimming pool or its levels of chlorine, the pool can become an algae breeding ground. A swimming pool that has lower than 7.2 for a pH and poor filtration will ultimately have an algae problem.

Types of Algae

• There are more than 20,000 different species of algae; out of those 20,000-plus, there are four main categories: green, yellow, black and pink. Green algae are the most common type found in pools. This type of algae causes cloudy water as well as a slimy bottom and sides. Yellow, or mustard, algae are typically found on the walls of a pool.

  Black algae are the most difficult algae to remove, according to Pool Center, and the most common way to remove this type of algae is to drain the pool. Pink algae are actually bacteria, not algae. These bacteria grow in corners and require a complete sanitation to remove.

Shocking the Pool

• The easiest way to remove algae from a swimming pool is to shock the pool with a double dose of chlorine. A pool shock works on green and yellow algae, but black and pink algae, which are rare, require draining and sanitizing the swimming pool. Brush the sides and bottom of the pool using a pool brush, flush the filter and prepare a chlorine shock solution. A chlorine solution requires 2 lbs. of chlorine for every 10,000 gallons of water. Brush the remaining algae the next day and vacuum the pool.

Preventing Algae

• Algae can creep up out of nowhere. Prevention is essential in keeping a swimming pool free of algae. To prevent their growth, maintain a pH level of 7.2 to 7.8 in the swimming pool. Be sure to also remove leaves and debris from the pool frequently and clean it at least once per week.