What is algae?
Algae is a living plant organism that can appear in your pool. It grows in layers on the walls and floor of your pool. It can result in clogged filters and poor water circulation. Typically, the algae will cause your pool water to turn green and cloudy.
What causes algae?
A lack of good circulation, filtration, and sanitation is usually a contributing or primary cause of algae in pools. Algae can be brought into the pool through wind, rain, and most of the time - contaminated equipment or swimsuits.
Is algae harmful?
While algae is not harmful to swimmers, most people would choose not to swim in slimy, green water. If left untreated, algae can continue to grow and clog up your pool's filtration system, causing permanent damage. Keeping up on maintenance will help prevention of algae growth in your pool.
Can algae grow in my pool during the winter?
Algae growth technically is stopped at temperatures below 40 degrees F. While this is true, some of the algae can continue to survive and go dormant over the winter but come back to life in early spring right before you open your pool. This is the reason why sometimes pools open green. To prevent this, we recommend shocking your pool and adding a winter algaecide to your water before closing for the winter. Having a secure winter cover will also help prevent dirt and debris from contaminating your water.
How can I prevent algae?
The best way to save time and money is to prevent algae in the first place. These steps are simple and easy to remember.
Get your water tested weekly and maintain your water balance. At Angie's, we can professionally test your pool water and tell you everything you need to treat your pool with down to the ounces.
Check your filter and clean it regularly. It is important that your water is circulating properly and that your filter is clean.
Add a weekly algaecide. GLB Algimycin 2000 is what we recommend to our customers to add to their pool weekly. This prevents the growth of black, green, and yellow algae.
Keep contaminants out of the pool. If you go to a lake and come home to jump in your pool with the same swimsuit on, you could infect your pool with algae. If swimsuits have been in the water with algae, as well as pool equipment, make sure these are washed and algae-free before getting in the pool.
AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION IS WORTH A POUND OF CURE
Preventing algae growth is crucial for maintaining a healthy aquatic environment, whether it's in a pond, aquarium, or swimming pool. Key strategies include controlling nutrient levels, ensuring proper water circulation, and using algae inhibitors. For those studying environmental science or related subjects, online class helpers can provide valuable assistance.