How To Get Rid Of Algae In A Swimming Pool

I would like to explain to all of you how to get rid of the algae in above ground and in-ground swimming pools. I am sure that none of you will disagree that being able to take a dip in the pool after a long day of work can be a huge stress reliever. However, you have to remember not to get lazy about keeping your pool water properly treated and clean. Algae usually grows when the PH level in your pool water is off balance. It is important to remember to measure the PH level of your pool water frequently because a severe algae problem can be very expensive to fix. Algae is a living organism and uses a process called “photosynthesis’ to grow. Sunlight and warm temperatures help algae to grow which is why it can become such an easy problem to have in a pool that sits directly under the summer sun. Things like rainwater, or dirty swimsuits. or equipment can bring small algae spores into your pool water and an algae infestation can occur very quickly. Algae is normally greenish-brown and you will notice a change in the overall color of your water as well as growth on the walls and floor of the pool. Algae can cause some serious health problems, it breeds dangerous bacteria such as E-Coli which is why you should never let anyone swim in a pool that has algae in it. Another issue that algae can bring is the level of cloudiness in your water. This can make it extremely difficult to see under water in the off chance that someone is drowning and needs to be rescued. By following the steps below you should be able to get rid of the algae in your swimming pool quickly and inexpensively. The first thing you should do is skim your pool and make sure that there are no dirt particles and leaves in your swimming pool. Using a PH strip that you can buy at any pool supply store, test the PH level of your pool water. The normal PH range should be between 7.2 and 7.4 so that the chlorine is doing its job in preventing algae and other bacteria growth. The next thing you will need to do is treat your pool with a quality Algaecide that you can also find at any pool supply store. Thoroughly read the directions on the Algaecide to figure out how much you need to use and always use latex gloves and a mask when dealing with harsh chemicals. Take your pool filter apart and thoroughly clean any algae or build up on the inside and outside. If you have a cartridge system, make sure you change the dirty cartridge to a clean one. Dry it with a towel and put it back into place. Turn on the filtration system so that the Algaecide treatment circulates throughout the pool water. Use a hard bristled brush to scrub the sides and the floor of your pool to get rid of any algae that might be left. After your pool filter has been running for a few hours use another PH strip to test the levels of your pool water. Remember, the PH level should be between 7.2 and 7.4 for the chlorine to work properly. Hopefully at this point you have successfully gotten rid of algae in your swimming pool! If for any reason you still have excess algae or it continues to grow after you have treated your pool with Algaecide you should call your local pool supply store or consult a professional.