How to identify and eliminate pool algae according to its type?

To begin, say that this page is within the Manter Pools guide and in the category of what are pool algae, we offer you an article about: How to identify and eliminate pool algae according to its type?

Algae can be a major nuisance, taking over ponds and riverbanks, clogging water intakes and making swimming spots unfit for use. But before taking the gloves out of the garage and calling in reinforcements to combat this aquatic threat, it is worth correctly identifying the type of algae we are facing, so that our efforts are properly directed. That's why we created this blog post: to help you understand how each type of algae affects your environment and what methods can best be used to eliminate or control it. So whether you're talking about filamentous algae, carpet algae (also known as floating moss) or blue-green slime, read on!

What are pool algae?

Algae are microscopic plants in your pool

Algae are microscopic plants that can appear in the pool due to natural elements, such as rain and wind, or they can also adhere to something as common as beach toys or swimsuits.

Be very careful with the care of the pool since the algae scum proliferates very quickly.

These microplants can multiply quickly and bloom into an eyesore. This can be a big problem for your pool surface and equipment if left untreated.

Permanently eliminate algae in swimming pools according to their type

Detect what types of pool algae we have to apply a correct treatment and be able to remove and eliminate pool algae

Make sure the type of algae we have in the pool

First of all, it should be mentioned that To solve the problem of pool algae and eradicate it, it will be really important to find the cause of the problem.

• Occasionally, the exact color of the pool water may not be as obvious, plus it will be cloudy, So it can be difficult to know what type of algae has settled in your pool.
• In fact, Algae can be quite a nuisance as it is known to grow quickly and spread throughout the pool. The presence of algae in your pool can cause various problems that are not only unsightly, but also unhealthy. Algae not only causes cloudiness of the water, but it also causes an increase in the proliferation of bacteria that can make the pool dangerous to swim in. It also causes the pH levels of the pool water to become unbalanced, leading to corrosion and long-term damage to the pool.
• To keep your pool clean and healthy, it is important that you take steps to control algae growth. This can be done by regularly checking chlorine levels, maintaining a proper pH balance, and keeping the pool free of debris. Also, make sure you clean the filter regularly to remove any spores or algae particles. Lastly, it is also important to ensure that adequate circulation is maintained to keep water moving and discourage algae growth.

To be sure what type of algae is in your pool, which will determine how to get rid of it, look closely at the spots where algae is starting to grow.

How to eliminate algae based on the categories of different types of algae in the pool

Different types of algae in the pool

There are many different types of algae, but they can broadly be classified into two main categories: macroalgae and microalgae.

• On the one hand, there are macroalgae, which are large, visible algae that are often seen growing on the surface of ponds or in aquariums.
• And, on the other hand, microalgae: much smaller and not always visible to the naked eye.

How to Eliminate Macroalgae from the Pool

Treating macroalgae is usually a matter of manually removing it from the body of water and then disposing of it properly.

• This can be done by removing them from the surface with a net or by vacuuming them from the water.
• Once macroalgae have been eliminated, it is important to take measures to prevent their reappearance.
• This can be done by ensuring that the water body has adequate circulation and filtration and maintaining proper water chemistry.

How to eliminate pool microalgae

Microalgae are more difficult to remove because they are very small and often spread throughout the water column.

To treat microalgae, various chemicals can be added to the water that will kill or inhibit their growth.

• Chlorine is often used for this purpose, but it can be harmful to other aquatic life, so it should only be used as a last resort.
• Copper sulfate is another common algaecide that is effective against many types of microalgae.
• However, it can also be harmful to other aquatic organisms, so it should only be used under the supervision of a qualified professional.

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Procedures to get rid of different types of algae in swimming pools

What are the most common types of algae in swimming pools?

Below, as a guideline, we list the most common types of algae in swimming pools and then we will explain them to you.

1st most common type of algae in swimming pools

Green algae: most common problem

What is green pool water?

Green algae in the pool what it is: To start, green pool water is the most common type of green algae is Chlorophyta, which has a bright green color and is actually very common to be found in swimming pools.

Green algae: Green algae is the most common type of pool algae and can be removed with a combination of chlorine and algaecide. First, shock the pool with chlorine to kill any algae in the water. Then use an algaecide to prevent further growth. Finally, use a pool brush to scrub the pool walls and floor to remove any algae debris.

What do we mean by green pool water?

However, it is not usually harmful to humans. However, it can discolor the water and make it look dirty.

Truly, on this page we are going to discuss Green Algae (green pool water): The most common and easiest to kill algae problem is chlorophyte, which gets its color from chlorophyll.

Green pool water or cyanobacteria algae are the most common type of algae you will find; usually blue and green in color, occurs naturally.

The green water in a pool is a consequence of the development of microalgae (algae proliferation). Click on the specific entry Pool algae, in which you will learn the causes of why algae appear in the pool and types of algae according to their color to be able to permanently treat them.

In reality, they are found in practically all types of soil and plant remains.

When does green pool algae appear?

It is very opportunistic, meaning it will take advantage of any failure in the normal disinfection program and quickly infest a pool.

One will see green algae problems appearing frequently at night after heavy rain. This is because rain storms actually provide algae with food in the form of nitrogen. Nitrogen not only feeds algae but also destroys chlorine residues.

Do not confuse green algae with metal

Green algae should not be confused with metal present in pool water. Metals, especially copper, can give water a light green tint.

Green pool water behavior (green algae)

• This is the most common algae in residential pools.
• It can be seen floating in the water and turning the water a misty green color and even turning it cloudy and giving it a greenish tint.
• Slimy green algae also clings to the walls and floor of the pool.
• Poor filtration and lack of proper disinfection encourage the growth of green algae.
• Likewise, there is a strong possibility that algae spores can adhere to the bottom of the pool.
• They can also be introduced into the pool through poor cleaning of swimsuits or toys that have been used in natural bodies of water that contain algae (the most typical case is the beach).

Video tutorial why green water reproduces in swimming pools

Next, in this educational video you can learn:

• First of all, we will reveal to you why green algae reproduces in swimming pools (even if they often contain sufficient amounts of chlorine and other chemicals at appropriate levels),
• Discover how to keep phosphate levels low (without using phosphate removers).
• We reveal how to save chemical costs in the pool.
• On the other hand, we will reduce the cost of chemicals necessary in your pool.
• At the same time, we will also reduce the time dedicated to the psychiatrist.

Recover green pool water

Generic treatment to eliminate green pool algae

Green algae: Green algae is the most common type of pool algae and can be removed with a combination of chlorine and algaecide.

In advance, we already mentioned that In general terms, the problem of green algae can be treated through methods such as: algaecide, shock treatment, etc.

How to remove green algae from the pool

1. First, you need to make sure your pool water is balanced before beginning the algae removal process.
2. In case you do not have the adjusted values ​​of water chemistry, it will be necessary to adapt them.
3. Next, you have to brush the pool walls, steps, and ladder.
4. Then Shock the pool with chlorine to kill any algae in the water.
5. Recirculate the water, keeping the pump and filter running (it is recommended to purify it over 12-24 hours).
6. Subsequently, we scrub the green algae again (if there is any), using a pool brush.
7. Then use an algaecide to prevent further growth.
8. Finally, we scrub again and vacuum, using a pool brush to scrub the walls and floor of the pool and remove any remaining algae.
9. Finally, we repeat that for better information consult the entry: recover green pool water.

What to do if with the first procedure we are not successful in getting rid of pool algae

1. If we do not obtain the expected results, we will repeat the shock procedure that we have just explained once again.
2. And, if this does not have any effect, it will be necessary to consult other more aggressive methods and alternatives (for example: flocculation).
3. Finally, we repeat that for better information consult the entry: recover green pool water.

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2nd most common type of algae in swimming pools

brown pool algae

Pool brown, yellow or mustard algae have a very similar shape to green algae.

Yellow or mustard algae have a very similar shape to green algae, but their growth is much slower and they are deficient in chlorophyll (green pigment) which explains their yellow color.

Yellow/Mustard Algae: Yellow or mustard algae can be killed with a shock combination of chlorine and algaecide. After shocking the pool for several days, apply an algaecide specifically designed to eliminate yellow or mustard algae. Once applied, brush the affected area to help loosen any stubborn stains and then vacuum up any visible debris. Finally, give the pool a shake again to ensure any remaining algae is removed.

Particularities Eliminate brown pool algae

• Truly, this algae is often confused with dirt, sand or pollen or sand.
• On the other hand, it is sometimes also called yellow or mustard algae.
• and easily identified by the ability to easily brush it off the pool walls and floor. Because yellow algae grow very slowly, they are also very difficult to destroy. By the time you see it growing in your pool, it has likely been there for several weeks.
• In addition, since yellow algae have a low content of chlorophyll, which is light-loving, algae live and even grow in dark areas of the pool, such as pipes and filters. This only aggravates the difficulty of control.
• As additional information, pollen is a good imitator of mustard algae, but it does not stick to walls. Pollen can also be seen everywhere (not just in shady areas).
• Besides, mustard algae are slimy like green algae.

Brown algae treatment

Fundamentally, brown algae in swimming pools are quite difficult to treat and even more so considering that they are resistant to chlorine.

. To treat mustard algae, care in selecting a suitable algaecide is the most important thing. Be sure to select a product made to control this unique form of algae. Copper-based algaecides seem particularly suitable for controlling yellow algae. A word of caution: It is not unusual to have to treat yellow algae more than once to fully control it. This again points out the value of preventing growth in the first place.

Remove mustard pool algae

How to Get Rid of and Remove Brown Pool Algae

1. First, clean everything that has come into contact with your pool water. Wash swimsuits and towels (use bleach!) and be sure to clean and disinfect pool toys and equipment. Remember, yellow algae spores can survive on almost any surface, so this step is essential.
2. Scrub and vacuum your pool. Use a good pool brush to remove yellow algae from the walls of your pool. Once you have removed all the algae, vacuum the pool well.
3. Try and water. If something is out of balance, for example the pH is too high or the alkalinity is too low, add chemicals to align things.
4. Brush the pool (again). This will help ensure you get the remaining seaweed.
5. Shock your pool. You will need to use about three times as much shock treatment as you would for green algae.
6. Run your pool filter for at least 24 hours to ensure the shock treatment can circulate.
7. Repeat steps as necessary.
8. Finally, it should be said that if the treatment does not work in your pool as it will, it will be necessary to apply another stronger one, until the pool is 100% free of algae and the water chemistry is balanced.

Advice on treating brown algae

• When you proceed to clean the yellow algae, we recommend that you do so with a vacuum method and putting the filter to waste.
• Algae can live on pool equipment, so you will want to keep dirty water from passing through the pool filter.

Video tutorial how to eliminate mustard pool algae

Eliminate attacking yellow or mustard algae from a pool

Next, a brief explanation of which chemicals you should use to treat the yellow or mustard algae problem.

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3st most common type of algae in swimming pools

black algae swimming pool

Black algae: the most difficult to treat

Black pool algae is often considered the most difficult algae to control; it is what we commonly call "black algae."

Black algae: Black algae are the most difficult type of algae to remove and require a more aggressive approach. Start by brushing the affected areas with a stiff bristle brush to remove algae from the walls and floor of the pool. Next, shock the pool with chlorine, followed by an application of algaecide to kill any remaining algae. Finally, use your pool vacuum or a handheld vacuum to remove all debris from the pool.

Pool black algae properties

What is black pool algae like?

• As for the Black pool algae are the least common and at the same time the most difficult to combat.
• Technically they are a cyanobacteria, so they are not entirely an algae per se.
• In addition, They have the characteristic of not stopping growing.
• Such is the case that the rough surface of concrete or plaster pools makes it the perfect home for sinking its roots and digging them deep.
• Thus, It will grow back quickly if your treatment is not aggressive enough to kill them at the root.
• Black algae may not affect the clarity of the water, but it can create black spots on the floor and walls of the pool.
• In conclusion, we recommend that you always rinse swimsuits, toys, floaties, etc.

Where do black algae stay in the pool?

Black algae generally take hold in areas of the pool that suffer from poor circulation, for example:. Areas like the corners, or in certain deep end areas.

Reason why black algae appear in the pool

Most of the time, these areas where black algae appear in the pool suffer from inadequate circulation and therefore little or no fresh water, disinfectant or algaecide reaches the area on a regular basis.

How to get rid of black algae

Procedure to eliminate black pool algae

1. Mainly, clean your filter, because it is very likely that the filter also has black algae.
2. Scrub the black algae with a good, stiff pool brush, as this will help break down the protective layer and make it easier to treat.
3. Break a chlorine tablet in half and rub it directly on the affected areas, considering that chlorine treatment will kill the algae roots and prevent them from returning.
4. Next, shock the pool with chlorine treatment, and because black algae are tougher than other types of algae, you may need to use a stronger dose of pool shock (our suggestion is to consult the pool's instructions). product carefully).
5. Add algaecide to the pool, in order to hinder new growth.
6. Next, run the pool filter for at least 24 hours to ensure the treatments and chemicals can circulate properly.
7. Lastly, Verifies that the chemical levels of the water are corrects, if not, obviously, you must adjust them.

Video tutorial how to remove black algae from the pool

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4th most common type of algae in swimming pools

White algae in the pool

Cloudy pool water = White pool algae

What is cloudy water in the pool?

Actually, what many people call white algae in the pool is not algae itself, but rather we are referring to white particles or impurities that are in suspension and cause cloudy water in the pool.

In this way, we will answer the question of what is cloudy water in the pool: cloudy water in the pool is nothing more than particles or impurities that are in suspension.

Consequences White Pool Algae

What happens if I have white algae in the pool?

1. If the water becomes cloudy from the pool, and as a direct consequence, they give us: dirt, dust, earth, stones, insects, leaves, organic matter...
2. Chlorine reduces its concentration and the disinfection of the pool is reduced.
3. Well, the acidity of rainwater will trigger a disturbance in the pH level.
4. So, with the same decomposition of dirt and temperature it will be very likely that algae will develop, since the chemical levels of the water become unbalanced.
5. Furthermore, the increase in water even It can cause the pool to overflow or the technical room, if it is buried, to flood.
6. Lichens may appear on the tiles.
7. In areas with nearby vegetation (grass) we may find worms in the water.

How to clean white pool algae

Steps to know how to eliminate white pool algae

1. First, reduce the water level of the pool.
2. Check that the skimmers are not clogged.
3. Clean the pump filter.
4. Remove surface dirt.
5. Remove dirt from the walls and bottom of the pool.
6. Measure and adjust: the pool's pH, alkalinity and chlorine level.
7. Likewise, generally use products such as rapid chlorine to apply a shock treatment and completely eliminate contamination in the water. That is, add shock chlorine to promote the removal of dirt.
8. Leave the pool filtration on for 24-48 hours straight to get the water moving, the disinfectant to work and the pool to be sanitized.
9. If these steps do not work, you should flocculate the pool. Professionals in maintaining pools do it in more severe cases, the process is to add a flocculant that acts so that the dirt settles at the bottom of the pool (if you have not done it before, we recommend hiring a specialist). In this case, you must wait until the next day so that the technician can start the filter and remove whatever may be left at the bottom.
10. Above all, insist on measuring levels for several days to check that everything is correct.

Video How to Eliminate White Pool Algae

If the water in your pool looks cloudy, here is the solution in three simple steps explained in great detail. So that the water in your pool is always clean and crystal clear.

Next, you can see a video showing how to remove algae from a white pool.

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5th most common type of algae in swimming pools

Pink algae in the pool

What are pink algae in the pool?

Pink algae in swimming pools forms as a pink or clear slimy coating on the pool surface and accessories, and is not associated with a specific cause. In reality, they are not a true algae, but a type of bacteria.

Pink algae: Pink algae is usually caused by high levels of phosphate in pool water. The best way to eliminate it is to use a phosphate remover and then apply a chlorine shock to the pool. Once the shock is applied, use an algaecide to prevent further growth. Finally, scrub the affected area with a stiff brush and vacuum up any remaining dirt.

Where do pink algae grow in the pool?

Normally, pink algae, i.e. these slimy pink bacteria, develop around PVC pipes and in shady places on the pool surface.

Why do I have pink algae in my pool?

Reasons for the appearance of pink algae in the pool

• Frequently, pink algae in the pool is the result of improper water and pool maintenance and poor water circulation.
• Secondarily, they can be caused by exposure to direct sunlight is another factor, and pools that receive less than 6 hours of direct sunlight per day appear to be more likely to develop this substance.
• Or ultimately, it can happen when it rains.

Pool pink algae properties

What are pink algae in the pool like?

• The first thing to keep in mind is that we are talking about bacteria (Serratia marcescens), as opposed to a type of algae.
• They present a pretty serious danger to swimmers on several levels.
• This does not take into account the fact that it is also extremely unpleasant to see in the water and/or along the walls of your pool.
• They have a particular predilection for areas with a significant amount of moisture in the air, as well as along various surfaces in the immediate area.

Are pink algae dangerous?

While pink algae is unpleasant and annoying, it does not pose a real danger to your health, like all other types of algae.

Truly, pink slime is completely harmless, since they are not a pathogen, which means that if you have pink algae in your pool, they will not be harmful to human health. However, having slippery pool accessories can contribute to accidents, so getting rid of pink algae is vital to maintaining the overall safety of your pool.

How to eliminate pink pool algae

Pink algae are resistant even to chemicals

Next, we give you the explanation of the treatment of pink pool algae:

• While treating your pool with chlorine and bromine helps kill other types of germs and bacteria, pink algae is very resistant to those chemicals.
• So, despite regular maintenance and chemical treatment, pink algae can still develop in your pool.
• Even after treatment, the possibility of recontamination is high, since It can remain and survive on items such as pool toys, skimmer baskets, fountains, and even garden hoses.

Although, unlike black algae, pink algae lacks a protective layer, so it is not particularly difficult to remove.

How to eliminate pink pool algae

Next, we will tell you how to eliminate algae from the pink pool.

1. First, you should scrub all the pink algae with a pool brush.
2. Secondly, a shock treatment with intense chlorine should be used and since it is not really a type of algae, you will need to use a higher dose to kill the pink algae (check the chemical label or ask a professional for maintenance). pool)
3. Then, run your pool filter for 24 hours.
4. Next, check the chemical values ​​of the pool water (if necessary, adjust them).

How to prevent algae formation in the pool

By following these steps for each type of algae, you can keep your pool clean and algae-free all season long! With regular maintenance and proper cleaning techniques, you can ensure that your pool stays nice and clean for years to come.