Beware of Algae Blooms

While temperatures are perfect for enjoying a refreshing dip in the pool, they are also hot enough to wreak havoc on your pool. The heat is the perfect breeding ground for algae in your pool. Algae blooms can be a nuisance and, if not dealt with quickly, can cause serious issues to your pool and pool water. If you find algae growing in your swimming pool, you need to act fast. 

Read on to learn more about how to keep the algae monster at bay during these hot summer months and what you need to do should it rear its ugly head. 

What are Algae and Why Do They Bloom?

Algae are living creatures that are always present in your pool at microscopic sizes. Just like all living things, they need food to survive, and even the bluest of pools can provide the food needed to fully bloom. When conditions are just right, an algae bloom can happen in a matter of hours. Algae thrive in many environments, depending on conditions like water temperature, sunlight, pH, mineral content, and chlorine residual. 

What Does Toxic Algae Bloom Look Like?

There are over 21,000 known varieties of algae. Here are the most common types of algae bloom and what you should be looking out for in your pool.

Green Algae: Green algae are easy to spot. It reduces water clarity and is often found floating in the water or clinging to the pool walls. It can also grow as spots, sheets, or clumps.

Yellow Algae: Wall clinging/mustard algae is more challenging to eradicate than other types of algae, and re-infection is common. It is resistant to normal chlorine levels and requires a firm treatment.

Black Algae: Black algae is hard to eliminate because of its strong roots and protective layers. It can appear as dark black or blue/green spots and will grow back in the same place if the roots aren’t destroyed. It can grow even in the presence of proper filtration.

How Do I Get Rid of Algae Blooms?

If you’re concerned about your pool’s health, it’s essential to take action and eliminate the bloom as soon as possible. Typical chlorine levels, unfortunately, cannot kill pool algae. Furthermore, your pool filter alone cannot eliminate algae spores. Follow the steps below to get rid of algae from your pool:

1.  Vacuum your pool manually. A manual vacuum while on the filter’s “waste setting” allows you to bypass your pool’s filter and avoid the risk of recirculating algae-ridden water back into the pool. 

2.  Scrub your pool walls and floor. Scrubbing the algae off the walls, floor and waterline tile will allow the chlorine to further attack the more stubborn algae blooms. 

3.  Test and balance the water. Ensuring you have properly balanced water now will allow the algae treatment to work more efficiently and effectively. 

4.  Shock your swimming pool. This extra dose of sanitizer on top of the chlorine will help stop the algae from continuing to bloom. 

5.  Filter out your pool algae by running the pool filter for a minimum of 8 hours or until the water is no longer cloudy. You can also use a water clarifier the help. 

6.  Test your pool water again. You’ve done a lot to make sure the algae is killed, so be sure your water is properly balanced before anyone gets back in for a swim. 

7.  Clean your pool filter. A lot of contaminated water was filtered through the pool. Give it another good deep cleaning session to make sure it won’t be recycled into your clean pool. 

Your Lexington Pool Care Experts

Yes, algae blooms are more of a nuisance than anything else, but they can cause serious issues if not treated properly. If you’re experiencing algae bloom that you’re unable to get under control, give the pool care experts at Aurora Pools & Spas a call or stop by our pool supply store in Lexington today. Be sure to visit our FAQ page for more commonly asked pool care questions. We’re here to help you with all of your pool care needs. 

About Aurora Pools & Spas

Aurora Pools & Spas has been the choice pool, spa and outdoor living experts in Lexington, Richmond, Georgetown and the surrounding areas since 1982. Family-owned and operated Aurora Pools & Spas has a rich history of providing the area with exceptional inground vinyl liner and fiberglass pool construction, as well as above ground pool sales and installation. 

Aurora Pools & Spas has built its long-standing reputation in the area through superior customer service whether they are building pools, selling chemicals and patio furniture, or answering any questions local pool owners may have.

Let Aurora Pools & Spas handle all of your pool care needs. For more information, call (859) 299-2932, visit their website at aurorapoolsandspas.com, or find them online at Facebook and YouTube.