If you own a salt water pool, you probably know how big of a problem algae growth can be. These organisms can quickly grow and spread once they have contaminated the pool. Both chlorinated and salt water pools need proper water chemistry levels in order to prevent algae growth. On the other hand, if algae are already present in your pool, there are still some measures you can take to remove them.
How Algae Grow in Salt Water Pools
A small, single-celled organism, an alga is a type of plant that uses the process of photosynthesis to grow and thrive. Alga spores can get into your pool from the rain, wind and even contaminated swimsuits. It is worth noting that algae will not survive in your salt water pool if it is chemically balanced. Algae can also grow quickly if the pool is not maintained.
Your salt water pool may encounter various problems if there is an active algae bloom in it. Algae is not harmful to swimmers but can harbor harmful bacteria such e.coli. Overgrowth of these organisms can cause pool filters to become clogged, which can lead to more headaches. Accidents can also be caused by algae growth, as it can make the pool stairs and floors slippery. The algae can also make stairs and floors slippery. They can cause pain, bruises.
Types of Algae in Salt Water Pools
Here are some of the common types of algae that infest salt water pools:
Green Algae
While green algae are endemic in salt water pools, they are the easiest to kill. The summer heat is when green algae grows. They float freely in the pool, making the water green. You might even see them growing on the bottom of the pool, on the walls, or in the crevices. Green algae, also known as yellow algae, can dramatically reduce the water clarity if pool water is not treated and left stagnant.
Mustard Algae
Also known as yellow algae, mustard algae are often mistaken as dirt or stains lying on the bottom of the pool. These organisms are resistant to chlorine so it can be difficult to eliminate them. You can find products that specifically kill yellow algae. They can even prevent the organisms from sprouting in the future.
Black Algae
One of the most difficult types of algae to get rid of is black algae. They can withstand sanitizers. While they rarely contaminate salt water pools, when they do, they can create small black patches in the corners and on the walls of the pools. They might even grow near the grout lines in your pool.
Pink Algae
When you see pink algae on your pool walls, they would look like rust buildup. They tend to form in smooth areas that are not often brushed or vacuumed.
How to Remove Algae from Your Salt Water Pool
Unfortunately, you cannot use regular cleaning processes to remove algae from your salt water pool. You need to readjust the water’s chemical balance. Salt water pools don’t use chlorine in the same manner as regular, chlorinated ones. However, you can still use the same strategy in adjusting the chlorine levels. Here are the steps:
First Step: Remove the Algae
Take your pool brush and scrape off the algae growth in your pool. Remember that this step won’t completely remove the algae or keep it from spreading. However, this procedure will let the algae float in the water, allowing the chemicals to eradicate them effectively.
Second Step: Ensure the Right pH Level
Make sure that the pH level of your pool water is between 7.4 to 7.6. The alkalinity should range between 120 to 150 ppm. The chemicals can be adjusted to reach the desired levels. This step won’t kill the algae, but it will aid in making the next procedure effective.
Third Step: Shock the Water
Kill the algae chemically by using chlorine shock. This should be done at night, and the pool filter should remain on until the morning. To determine how many chemicals to add, follow the directions on the package.
Fourth Step: Vacuum the Pool
Once you notice that the pool water has become cloudy blue, you can test it to know if the chemicals are balanced properly. The dead algae will eventually settle to the bottom of your pool. They will eventually be removed by the filter, but a pool vacuum will make it easier.
Fifth Step: Decontaminate the Filter
If the pool water has become clear, you can remove the filter. It is possible to disassemble the filter and clean all internal parts thoroughly. Check for dead algae.
It can be tedious and time-consuming to eradicate algae in your salt water pool. Keep in mind that these organisms feed on debris and dirt. To stop them from flourishing, we recommend you cover your pool with a pool cover. If you’re worried about the hassle of covering and uncovering your pool, give us a call and order our automatic pool reel. With a push of a button, you will be able to draw in and draw out the cover. Needless to say, you won’t give algae the opportunity to spread and thrive.
