How to Get Rid of Green Algae in Pool
Green algae in your swimming pool can quickly turn a refreshing oasis into an unsightly and potentially unsafe area. When left untreated, green algae can spread, making it harder to clean and posing risks to pool equipment and water quality. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to get rid of green algae in your pool, offering practical tips and professional advice for cleaning green algae from swimming pools effectively.
What Causes Green Algae in Pools?
Green algae thrive in warm, sunny environments, and a swimming pool provides the perfect conditions for their growth. The most common causes of green algae in pools are:
- Low chlorine levels: Chlorine is the primary sanitizer in pools and is essential for killing bacteria and algae. When chlorine levels drop too low, algae can grow unchecked.
- Poor circulation: Algae spores need stagnant water to settle and multiply. If your pool’s circulation system isn’t functioning properly, it could lead to algae blooms.
- Unbalanced pool chemistry: High pH or low alkalinity can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine, leading to algae growth.
- Dirty filters: Filters that aren’t working properly can allow debris and algae spores to accumulate, making it harder to keep the water clean.
Understanding the causes of green algae in your pool is the first step in effectively removing it.
Steps to Get Rid of Green Algae in Pool
Test Your Pool Water
Before beginning the algae removal process, it’s essential to test the water’s chemistry. The primary factors to check are:
| Chemical | Ideal Range | Effect |
| Chlorine | 1.0 – 3.0 ppm | Kills algae, bacteria, and keeps water sanitized. |
| pH | 7.2 – 7.6 | Proper pH ensures chlorine works effectively. |
| Alkalinity | 80 – 120 ppm | Stabilizes pH and prevents it from fluctuating. |
Once you have tested and adjusted the water chemistry, you’re ready to begin cleaning green algae from your swimming pool.
Brush and Scrub Pool Walls and Floor
Green algae tend to cling to pool surfaces, especially the walls, steps, and corners. Use a pool brush with stiff bristles to scrub the affected areas. Scrubbing loosens algae from the surfaces, allowing cleaning chemicals to be more effective.
| Brushing Tip | Area of Focus | Purpose |
| Use a stiff-bristled brush | Walls, corners, steps | Loosens algae for easier removal and chemical treatment. |
Pay close attention to areas where water circulation is poor, as algae are more likely to accumulate in these spots. Regular brushing is one of the most crucial steps in removing green algae from pool walls and other surfaces.
Vacuum the Pool
After brushing, vacuum the pool to remove any debris and loosened algae from the pool floor. Whether using a manual or automatic pool cleaner, ensure you remove as much algae and dirt as possible. If your pool is particularly algae-ridden, you may need to vacuum multiple times to get the water looking clear.
| Vacuuming Tip | Frequency | Purpose |
| Use automatic or manual vacuum | Weekly or as needed | Removes debris and algae buildup, preventing re-growth. |
Shock the Pool with Chlorine
To get rid of green algae in your pool completely, you’ll need to shock the pool with chlorine. Pool shock is a highly concentrated form of chlorine that quickly raises the chlorine levels to kill algae and bacteria.
| Shocking Tip | Best Time to Apply | Purpose |
| Add shock at night | Evening or nighttime | Prevents sunlight from deactivating the chlorine, maximizing effectiveness. |
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct dosage based on your pool size. Make sure the pool pump is running to help distribute the shock evenly throughout the pool.
Add an Algaecide
While chlorine is effective at killing algae, an algaecide can provide extra protection to ensure that any remaining algae spores are killed. Algaecides are designed specifically to target and eliminate algae, and using one will help clean green algae from swimming pools and prevent future growth.
| Algaecide Tip | Best Application Time | Effectiveness |
| Copper-based algaecide | After shocking and cleaning | Provides long-term protection and prevents algae re-growth. |
Copper-based algaecides are particularly effective for green algae, but always check the label to ensure it is safe for your pool type and compatible with other chemicals you are using. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.
Run the Pool Filter
Once you’ve shocked the pool and added algaecide, let the pool pump run continuously for at least 24 hours. This allows the filter to trap any remaining algae particles and helps clear the water.
| Filter Tip | Action | Purpose |
| Run the filter for 24 hours | Keep the pump running continuously | Helps remove algae debris, improves water clarity. |
You may need to clean or backwash the filter during this process, as it could become clogged with algae debris. Running the filter is critical for pool green algae removal and ensuring that all the chemicals circulate properly.
Retest the Water and Adjust Chemical Levels
After running the filter and allowing the chemicals to work overnight, retest the pool water to ensure that the chlorine levels are within the ideal range and that the pH and alkalinity are balanced. Proper chemical balance is crucial for maintaining a clean pool and preventing algae from returning.
| Post-treatment Tip | Action | Purpose |
| Test water after treatment | Retest chlorine, pH, and alkalinity | Ensures proper chemical balance to prevent algae re-growth. |
Repeat the Process if Necessary
In some cases, especially if the algae bloom was extensive, you may need to repeat the process. If the pool is still green after one round of shocking and algaecide treatment, perform another shock treatment and clean the pool again. Persistent algae growth may require multiple treatments, but with consistent care, your pool should clear up.
Tips for Preventing Green Algae in the Future
Once you’ve successfully removed green algae from the pool, you’ll want to take steps to prevent it from coming back. Here are a few tips for preventing green algae on pool walls:
| Tip | Description |
| Maintain proper pool chemistry | Regularly check and balance chlorine, pH, and alkalinity. |
| Regularly clean the pool | Brush walls, vacuum the pool, and remove debris weekly. |
| Ensure proper pool circulation | Run the pool pump for 8-12 hours daily. |
| Use a pool cover | Reduce sunlight exposure and debris when the pool is not in use. |
Conclusion
Dealing with green algae in your pool doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these steps to get rid of green algae in your pool, you can restore your pool to a clean, safe state. Regular maintenance and water testing are essential to preventing future algae blooms, ensuring that your pool stays crystal-clear throughout the swimming season.
If you find the algae problem too difficult to manage on your own, Green Pool Cleaning offers professional algae removal and pool cleaning services to ensure your pool remains pristine.