One common issue that homeowners come across in their swimming pools is algae blooms. Algae turns the sparkling, clean blue water in the pool to a murky, green mess that makes the swimming pool totally unusable.
Fortunately, with the right tools and strategy, you can manage and prevent algae blooms in your pool. For people who don’t have the time to do it themselves, they can consider hiring a pool service in Chandler, AZ to take care of this issue. Further, we’ll talk about how to prevent the blooming of algae in your swimming pool.
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Identify the Type of Algae Blooming in the Pool
The most common type found in swimming pools is green algae which appears as a slimy, green coating on the pool’s floor and walls. It blooms due to insufficient chlorine and poor water circulation. Mustard or yellow algae appears as gritty, yellowish spots that tend to cling to the surface of the pool.
The most difficult to remove and stubborn type is the black algae that appears as dark green or black spots on the pool surface. It is slimy in texture and generally forms in crevices or cracks in the surface of the pool.
Balance the Pool’s Water Chemistry
You need to maintain a balanced water chemistry in your pool to combat algae blooming. Use a reliable kit to test pool water twice a week for chlorine, alkalinity, and pH levels.
Chlorine should be between 1.0 to 3.0 ppm, while pH level should be between 7.4 to 7.6. Water sanitizers are effective only when chemical balance of pool water is appropriate.
Consider Shocking the Pool
Shock your swimming pool by adding a large amount of chlorine to the pool. The added chlorine levels kill algae and even prevent future growth. Make sure to choose a pool shock product that works well with your swimming pool type.
Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and shock the pool at evening or night when the sun has set. This is because sunlight degrades chlorine and reduces its effectiveness. After shocking the pool, run the pool’s pump for 24 hours so that proper water circulation and chlorine distribution takes place.
Vacuum & Brush the Pool Regularly
Use a brush with stiff bristles to scrub the floor, steps, and walls of your pool. This dislodges algae from the surface so that it is removed easily through vacuuming. Pay extra attention to ladder steps and corners where algae tends to cling.
If you find any damage while cleaning the pool, consider hiring pool repair in Chandler. When the brushing is done, vacuum the pool to remove debris and dead algae. You can even use a manual vacuum to make sure all loose algae is removed.
Filter Cleaning & Replacement
Your swimming pool’s filters have a big role in removing debris and algae. Backwash and clean the filter regularly based on the manufacturer’s instructions. A dirty or clogged filter does not work efficiently and contributes to algae blooms.
If the filter is damaged or worn out, make sure to get it repaired or replaced as soon as you can. Efficient filtration is key to maintain water clarity and prevent algae growth.
Improve Water Circulation
Stagnant areas come up due to bad water circulation leading to algae growth. Check the functioning of returns and pool jets and adjust water flow so that there is even water distribution across the pool. Hire pool repair in Chandler if any part is malfunctioning.
If there is an algae bloom, run the filter system and pool pump 24 hours a day. This improves water circulation, removes suspended algae, and distributes pool chemicals evenly.
Prevent Algae Blooms in Your Pool With Proper Care
You need a systematic and proactive approach towards pool maintenance to handle algae blooms in your pool. Brush, vacuum, and test the water chemistry regularly, along with checking and maintaining the pool equipment for efficient functioning.
You can hire a pool service in Chandler, AZ for assistance with handling algae growth. Use a pool cover when not using the pool to keep debris out. Also, during summer months, use algaecides as a preventive measure against algae blooms. This way, you can ensure the cleanliness of your swimming pool and keep algae growth away.