A well-maintained pool can be the asset of your backyard. It can be the highlight of fun and centerpiece of all activities. However, this requires big responsibility to maintain it’s healthy benefit.
Occasionally pools develop unavoidable water problems, algae are one of which. So how do we get rid of algae, the pest kings of pools?
What are algae?
Algae are basically living aquatic creature that proliferates quickly on sunny days. These microscopic plants have the potential to regulate photosynthesis.
Whether we like it or not, algae are always present in pools, even if it has been cleaned. It’s at its microscopic size and is patiently waiting for the most favorable time to bloom.
So what causes algae growth in pools?
First and foremost, amassing dirt and slime on pool surfaces. This supplies an ideal location for algae to multiply.
Second, when pools are not properly balanced. This includes the imbalance of water chemicals, existence of nitrates or carbon dioxide, hot temperature and sunlight.
Third, which is the main cause of algae, poor filtration, deficient circulation and substandard sanitation.
If you want to make your own cleaning products which is safe, natural, and cheap, there are effective techniques in order to save money.
Although algae may not harm the users, it may be the cause to spread bacteria, which is not beneficial to the health of the swimmers. In addition, who in the world would want to swim in a pool full of algae?
Now, how to get rid of algae in the pool?
There are various techniques to solve algae dilemma. Recognizing the type of algae can help you effectively clean your pool but before anything else, general cleanliness of the pool is essential.
1. BALANCE POOL CHEMISTRY
Check the chlorine and PH level of your pool. There is a big possibility for algae to germinate when chlorine levels are less than 1.0 ppm (parts per million). If chlorine is below the regular limit, pool water will turn green in due course.
Regularly checking the chlorine level is imperative because even if a few days without proper maintenance can ultimately turn your pool green because of the rapid growth of algae.
Chlorine level should be between 1.0 and 3.0 ppm (parts per million). These are the safe level for your pool to get rid of algae. Remember that too much of something is bad enough. The high amount of chlorine can cause skin and eyes problems.
PH level should be balanced as well. The ideal range for PH is 7.0-7.6. As mentioned, balance is the key. High PH can cause skin irritation and burn of eyes. In addition, chlorine may not work optimally and cannot sanitize the water.
In treating with algae, PH level should be higher than the regular. Perfect range should be around 7.0-8.0. Bear in mind to turn on the pump while treating algae so chemicals can course around the water. The perfect chemical pool balance should get rid of algae and eliminate them for good.
2. PROPER FILTRATION
You have to make sure that your filter is properly cleaned and is free from any kinds of debris such as leaves, sticks and any other material that causes your filter to clog.
Most pool filters should be operated for a minimum of 12 hours each day or longer. Some filters should be run longer when one is undersized or filter media is old and no longer effective as it was once.
For effectively getting rid of Algae, it is recommended to run the filter 24 hours per day during the cleaning process.
It will always be essential to educate yourself. If you keep your pool in good condition, you will not only get rid of the hassle algae will bring but also the possibility to lessen your aggravation spent on battling algae blooms.
3. GET RID OF ALGAE BY SCRUBBING
Regular brushing of your swimming pool can help speed up the cleaning process. Algae sticks to the surfaces and scouring can loosen up the algae, thereby helps the chemical to become more effective.
Inspect the areas that have volume amount of algae and simply scrub that specific section. Always put in mind that pools have different materials, do not just use any kind of brushes. Nylon type of brush can be used for vinyl, fiberglass or tiled kinds of pools.
Algae growth rate depends on how often your pool gets cleaned, but they sure grow fast if left untouched. You must scrub the pool walls at least three times a week to make certain the algae won’t outgrow your cleaning schedule.
For convenience, let a robotic pool cleaner run around your pool on a daily basis. To get rid of algae, pool cleaners scrub them off with less of your effort, and through this way the machine keeps the water flow active.
