How Do I Remove Algae From My Pool?

Why Is There Algae in My Pool? (And Why Won’t It Just Go Away?)

Algae is basically nature’s way of telling you that your pool needs some TLC. It can sneak into your pool via wind, rain, or even swimwear that’s been in natural bodies of water. Once it's there, all it needs is sunlight, water, and a lack of proper sanitization to thrive.

Some common reasons algae may appear in your pool include:

• Imbalanced chemicals: Low chlorine levels or improper pH balance.
• Poor circulation: If your pump isn’t running efficiently, algae can settle in dead zones.
• Infrequent cleaning: Algae loves dirt, so when debris is left floating in your pool, it gives algae a cozy environment to grow.

So how do you get rid of it? Let’s dive in.

Types of Pool Algae and How to Identify Them

Before you can defeat the enemy, you’ve got to know what you’re up against. Pool algae comes in a few different colors, each with its own challenges.

Green Algae

• What it looks like: The most common type, it turns the water murky and gives surfaces a slimy green layer.
• How it spreads: Typically grows when the chlorine level is too low. Can take over quickly if not addressed.

Yellow (Mustard) Algae

• What it looks like: Dusty yellow or mustard-colored growth on pool walls or the bottom.
• How it spreads: Harder to remove than green algae, as it resists chlorine treatments. Commonly found in shaded areas.

Black Algae

• What it looks like: Dark spots that look like mold on pool surfaces, especially plaster or concrete.
• How it spreads: The toughest to remove due to its deep roots, black algae usually requires brushing and aggressive chemical treatment.

Once you know your foe, it’s time to suit up and battle it head-on.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Algae from Your Pool

Here’s where the fun begins. Removing algae requires a bit of elbow grease, the right chemicals, and patience. Follow these steps to get your pool looking fresh again.

1. Test and Balance Your Water Chemistry

Before attacking the algae, test your water's pH and chlorine levels. You want the pH between 7.2 and 7.6 for maximum chlorine effectiveness. If your pH is too high or too low, adjust it accordingly with pH increaser or decreaser.

2. Shock the Pool (And No, Not With Electricity!)

Once the water is balanced, it’s time for pool shock. This is a high dose of chlorine designed to kill algae. For green algae, use 2-3 pounds of shock per 10,000 gallons of water. For yellow or black algae, you may need to double that amount.

• Tip: Use the shock at night for best results since sunlight can degrade chlorine.

3. Brush and Vacuum Like a Pro

After shocking, give the entire pool a thorough brushing—especially the walls and steps where algae loves to hide. Use a nylon-bristle brush for vinyl pools and a stainless-steel brush for concrete or plaster.

Then, vacuum the pool to remove dead algae and debris. If your pool has a lot of algae, consider using a manual vacuum to prevent clogging your filter.

4. Run the Pump and Filter Continuously

After shocking and vacuuming, run your pump and filter for at least 24 hours. Algae particles are tiny, and it takes time for your filter to remove them. Be sure to backwash your filter or clean it out frequently during this process.

5. Monitor and Retest the Water

After 24-48 hours, test your water again. You might need a second round of shock for stubborn algae or high levels of contamination. Keep scrubbing, vacuuming, and filtering until the water clears up.

How to Prevent Algae from Coming Back

Now that you’ve defeated the algae, how do you keep it from returning? Here are some tips to help you stay algae-free:



• Maintain proper chlorine levels: Aim for a level between 1-3 ppm to keep algae at bay.
• Run your pool pump daily: Circulation is key. Make sure the pump is running for at least 8 hours per day during peak swim season.
• Brush regularly: Algae can cling to pool surfaces, so brushing once a week helps prevent buildup.
• Shock weekly: Regular shocking, especially after heavy rains or pool parties, can help prevent algae growth.
• Use algaecide: As a preventative measure, adding an algaecide to your pool can help stop algae before it starts.

Common Algae Removal Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when battling algae. Here are a few common missteps to watch out for:



• Using too little shock: Not using enough chlorine to properly kill algae is a common issue. Don’t be afraid to shock the pool heavily—especially for yellow or black algae.
• Neglecting the pool’s dead zones: Algae tends to hide in places with poor circulation, like steps, ladders, and behind pool lights.
• Skipping the brushing step: This is a big one! Algae sticks to surfaces, and unless you brush it off, your shock treatment may not reach it.

Call in the Pros: Let Aquatic Excellence LLC Handle Your Pool Cleaning in Temple, GA!

While DIY algae removal is possible, it can be time-consuming and tricky, especially if you're dealing with stubborn varieties like black algae. If you're tired of fighting the green menace or just want to keep your pool pristine without the hassle, Aquatic Excellence LLC is here to help!

With years of experience in professional pool cleaning and maintenance, we’ll make sure your pool stays sparkling clean year-round. Contact our team today at (678) 880-3170 for pool cleaning services in Temple, GA, and the surrounding areas. Whether you're dealing with algae, need regular maintenance, or want help with your pool’s chemical balance, we’ve got your back. We also offer pool installation, pool closing, pool liner replacement, pool maintenance, and more. From keeping your pool in top shape to helping you create the perfect backyard oasis, we’re your one-stop-shop for all things pool-related.

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