How to prevent algae in the pool

Having a pool is a wonderful experience, but it does require a fair amount of maintenance. With the scorching heat of summer and rising humidity levels, a potential problem is just around the corner: algae. While algae isn’t necessarily dangerous, it can be unsightly and make your pool look unsightly. Fortunately, you can keep your pool algae-free and ready to use.

In this article, we will talk about how to keep your pool algae-free all summer long!

Avoid standing water

Pools are generally considered to be stagnant, but this is not necessary. Algae thrive in stagnant water and will not hesitate to accumulate in your pool water. With the right care, you can keep your pool water clean, which is essential to your overall pool hygiene.

The best way to keep the water moving is to use a filter and invest in a velocity pump. These solutions keep the water active, preventing algae from forming. Overall, keeping the water moving will help keep it clean and improve the swimming experience.

Clean the filter regularly

The filter is one of the most important parts of your pool, so it needs to be maintained. If your filter becomes clogged, you will start to notice changes in your pool. Foreign materials, such as dirt, bugs, and algae, will start to build up, and the buildup can damage your filter, causing further problems and higher maintenance costs in the long run. Depending on your pool system, the filter plays a role in the pH value of your pool water, making regular maintenance even more essential, as it is often overlooked.

Swim in it

Having a pool and not using it is a great way to let your pool deteriorate beyond simple maintenance and repair. Filters can be helpful in keeping the water moving, but they are not the only option. Regular pool use can also keep the water moving and discourage potential algae growth. Most importantly, it is a great way to recognize if algae is starting to bloom and nip the problem in the bud.

Use an algaecide

If you are concerned about a potential algae bloom or have had previous blooms, an algaecide may be your best option. These specialized biocides are designed to completely prevent algae growth by somehow interrupting the growth process. Some algaecides focus on stopping photosynthesis so the algae cannot feed or thrive, while others physically attack the algae or break up a portion of it to stop it.

When used weekly, algaecides can keep your pool clean. In place of algaecide, some people use barley straw as a more natural approach to algaecide. While the benefits of this method are still being defined, some pool owners are convinced of it. If you’re not sure where to start, store-bought algaecide can be a much more affordable and introductory option.

Managing phosphates

Phosphate test kits are an excellent tool for detecting and preventing algae blooms in your pool. These kits will help you check for high levels of phosphate, which can increase the level of algae in your pool. By using phosphate test kits, you can ensure that your water is staying within safe levels and adjust it if necessary if external factors are affecting your pool’s condition. If your pool has high levels of phosphate, investing in a phosphate remover will help you get your pool back to its best.

Maintain adequate chlorine levels.

While most pool owners know that chlorine plays an important role in keeping their pools clean, not everyone knows how it works. Inside a pool, there is what is called “free chlorine content.” This number is important because it can affect the cleanliness of the pool. Free chlorine content is used to indicate the amount of free chlorine in the pool that can help keep it clean and fight the growth of microorganisms.

If the free chlorine content is too low, there will not be enough chlorine to fight algae or other microorganisms, resulting in increased growth or increased health risks. If the free chlorine content is too high, you risk inhaling chlorine gas or damaging personal items.

To maintain proper levels, it is important for pool owners to regularly check these levels and adjust them as needed. For swimming pools, the CDC recommends keeping free chlorine levels above 1 PPM and, in most cases, below 4 PPM.

The result

Keeping algae away from your pool is easier than you might think, as long as you have the right tools. Preventative maintenance such as an algaecide can be very helpful, especially if your pool is prone to algae growth at certain times of the year.

If you are an active and attentive pool owner, it will be easy to keep the water perfect, so you can always dive in and enjoy a swim.