Algae That Looks Like a Worm in Pools

Algae Types

• Algae is present in three different forms that include the more common green algae followed by mustard and black algae. Black algae is the hardest to clean as it's formed in layers that reappear soon after wiping a surface clean of the algae. The first indication of algae comes in the form of cloudy pool water that is not properly sanitized, which is a breeding ground for algae and, as a result, it can grow and multiply quickly, becoming a major problem in your pool.

Brush

• You will need a pool brush to scrub away the algae from the pool. Before adding any chemicals, wipe the pool walls and ladder clean, which will give you a head start in the fight against algae. Use your skimmer net to collect any large pieces of algae that may be floating on the pool surface, and connect the vacuum to the pool filter. Clean the pool bottom to the best of your ability.

Clean Filter

• Clean your filter by the process known as backwashing only if you own a sand or diatomaceous earth filter. For cartridge filter owners who have algae blooms in their pool, cleaning the cartridge may be difficult as it may be ridden with algae as well. Backwash several times during the course of trying to clean the pool because as the filter circulates, it will collect more bacteria and pieces of algae blooms.

Chemicals

• Super chlorinate your swimming pool once the filter has been backwashed. You should expect to run the filter nonstop while trying to combat the algae. Pool supply stores sell super-shock that can be used to quickly elevate the sanitizing levels in your pool. This, when used in conjunction with brushing the algae, can lead to elimination. You may need to use several doses of shock to rid the pool of the worm-looking algae.