What is what to do when your pool turns green?

What to Do When Your Pool Turns Green

A green pool is a common problem, usually caused by algae. Here's a breakdown of how to fix it:

1. Test Your Water Chemistry: The first step is to determine the root cause. Use a reliable test kit (strips or liquid) to check your pool's:

   • pH level: Aim for a range of 7.2 to 7.8.
   • Alkalinity: Ideal range is 80 to 120 ppm (parts per million).
   • Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer): This protects chlorine from sunlight; levels should be between 30 to 50 ppm.
   • Chlorine: Check both free chlorine (FC) and total chlorine (TC). If FC is zero, that's a major issue.

2. Balance Your Water: Adjust pH and alkalinity before shocking. Use chemicals like pH increaser/decreaser and alkalinity increaser as needed, following product instructions.

3. Shock Your Pool: "Shocking" means adding a large dose of chlorine to kill the algae. You'll need a lot more than usual. Consider using a chlorine shock product specifically designed for this purpose. Follow product instructions. Superchlorination may be required. Aim for at least 10 ppm of free chlorine.

4. Run Your Filter: Run your pool filter continuously until the water clears up. Clean the filter frequently (backwash if you have a sand or DE filter; clean or replace cartridge filters). This is crucial to remove dead algae.

5. Brush the Pool: Brush the walls and floor of your pool thoroughly. This dislodges algae and helps the chlorine reach it.

6. Test and Adjust Again: After 24 hours, test your water chemistry again and adjust pH and alkalinity as needed. You may need to shock the pool again if the water is still green.

7. Use an Algaecide (Optional): After shocking and balancing the water, you can use an algaecide as a preventative measure to help prevent future algae blooms. Choose an algaecide that is compatible with your sanitizer.

8. Clarifier (Optional): A pool clarifier can help clump together dead algae particles, making them easier for your filter to remove.

Important Considerations:

• Severity of Green: Dark green water means a more severe algae bloom, requiring more chlorine and time.
• Filter Type: Different filter types have different cleaning requirements. DE filters are generally the most effective at removing algae.
• Sunlight: Algae thrives in sunlight. Shock your pool at dusk or night for best results.
• Professional Help: If you're struggling to clear your pool, consider contacting a pool professional.