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How and when is anti-algae used in the pool?

Pool anti-algae: discover how to use algaecide in the pool, when to add it, what type is best in each case, etc.

anti-algae pool
anti-algae pool

En Ok Pool Reform within Chemical products We present the article about: How and when is anti-algae used in the pool?

What are 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.


Why do algae appear in the pool and how to prevent it?

Main reason for green pool water: lack of maintenance

 The main reason for pool water to change color or become cloudy is lack of maintenance.However, there are multiple factors that can generate this type of inconvenience, since green pool water is usually formed when the filters become dirty, which prevents the water from being kept clean.

Fortunately, today there are multiple methods to clean swimming pool with green water, which gives people the opportunity to restore their pools without any inconvenience, since there are even multiple methods to clean green pools without emptying, which is much more comfortable for most.

Generally, algae like warm environments and natural spaces.

  • Generally, algae like warm environments, Therefore, you will surely have this problem in a hot month.
  • On the other hand, These are more likely to appear if the pool is located near a garden or a natural pond, since algae feed on phosphates.
  • Algae often appear in the shadiest areas of the pool, in corners and walls that are not normally in the sun.

Types of algae according to their color

The color of the algae varies from agreement their type, they can be from green to black, which gives it a pretty bad look that no one wants to have in their pool.

Likewise, if the algae in the pool is black, the problem is greater.

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.

Algae in the pool causes and prevention

Table of Contents: Why do algae appear in the pool and how to prevent it?

  • What are algae?
  • Algae in the pool causes and prevention
  • Types of algae in swimming pools
  • Detect types of algae for swimming pools to apply a correct treatment
  • Recover pool with green algae

What is an algaecide for swimming pools?

pool algaecide
pool algaecide

What is a pool anti-algae used for?

The algaecides are Chemicals that prevent and eliminate the appearance of algae in your pool. It is very important for the maintenance of your pool that you use algaecides, both in summer and winter.

The main job of algaecides is to discourage the typical cell growth process of algae. Although they block cell division or energy transfer, they limit the creation of newer cellular proteins, which help algae survive.

Sign of urgent need for algaecide in the pool

A sign that your pool needs an algaecide is when the water begins to take on a greenish color. This means that your pool water was exposed to more than 12 hours with a low chlorine level and with light and temperature conditions favorable for the appearance of algae.

The pool anti-algae does a better job as a preventive effect

Thus, Pool anti-algae is a very effective algaecide with incorporated flocculating action, which is intended for the prevention and elimination of algae., and at the same time clarifies the water thanks to its flocculation capacity, reduces chlorine consumption and reduces unpleasant odors.

Pool anti-algae: It is not a quick solution to completely get rid of algae

Algaecide is not a quick fix to completely get rid of algae in your pool.

It is more often used as a preventative measure than as a reactive treatment. These chemicals contain components that kill algae but also prevent its growth in your pool.

Pool algaecide components

Most algicides on the market contain a copper base, usually derived from copper sulfate.

These chemical compounds use metal as their main atom, which helps attack algae much more effectively.


What does anti-algae do?

pool algae solution

What does pool algaecide do?

1st pool anti-algae effect

Kill algae

  • In a pool where there is algae, algaecides work together with chlorine to kill the algae cells. The algaecide causes the algae cells to burst, which destroys the plant.
  • Different algaecides are used for different types of algae.
  • For example, ammonia-based algaecide is very effective against green algae, but combined with a metal-based algaecide it will also kill resistant black algae.

2nd pool anti-algae effect

Prevent algae

  • Algicides used as a preventative treatment to prevent the formation of algae in your pool are called algaestats.
  • They typically have the same formulation as those used to kill existing algae, but are used in smaller quantities.
  • When added to your pool water on a regular basis, algaecides or algaestats prevent algae from forming in your pool.

3st pool anti-algae effect

Reduces surface tension

  • When some algaecides are added to your pool in large quantities, such as to kill existing algae, they also reduce surface tension.
  • This causes foam to appear on the water. Foaming is more common with quaternary ammonium algicides known as "quats."
  • Polymer is sometimes added to algaecide to prevent foaming. This type of algaecide is known as "polyquat."

4th pool anti-algae effect

metal stains

  • Metal algaecides, such as copper and colloidal silver, can sometimes leave stains on the sides and bottom of the pool.
  • Copper-based formulations can leave blue stains that eventually oxidize and turn gray and black.
  • Colloidal silver can cause black spots. Ammonia-based algaecides do not usually cause stains.

5th pool anti-algae effect

pH and chlorine balance

  • Algaecides do not directly affect the pH balance in your pool, but too much algae will raise the pH level.
  • By killing algae, algaecide helps pH levels return to normal.
  • Algaecide also works together with chlorine, which helps make chlorine more effective against algae and bacteria.

Can chlorine and anti-algae be combined at the same time?

You can add chlorine and anti-algae at the same time

Can you use chlorine and anti-algae at the same time?


Types of anti-algae

long-lasting pool algaecide
long-lasting pool algaecide

Wide variety of pool algaecide treatments

Fortunately there are special treatments through algaecides to eliminate algae from our pools that can be used safely by bathers, but are effective enough to say goodbye to this common and at the same time so unpleasant problem. One of the most used products are anti-algae products, which will be described below to learn more about their effectiveness in pool water.

The most used anti-algae is chlorine, which completely destroys algae through a chemical action called oxidation, a process that kills organic waste chemically. Another algaecide that is widely used by users is copper sulfate or CuSO4 crystals, but they are especially used to eliminate or prevent mustard algae.

On the other hand, potassium tetraborate also stands out, which eradicates algae, and sodium bromide, which acts as one of the most effective algaecides to exterminate mustard algae and a water mold called “pink” algae.

In summary, there are a variety of anti-algae products to get rid of these microorganisms in your pool. But, in our online store you can find the following products that are capable of eliminating all types of algae quickly:

How do I choose the right algaecide for my pool?

types of pool algaecide

Depending on the water conditions of your pool and what your needs are, you can choose:

For water maintenance:

If the water in your pool frequently turns green, it is necessary that you use a preventive algaecide that is placed every certain number of days, depending on the liters of water that your pool contains.

To remove overgrown algae:

An algaecide is required to eliminate the problem established in your pool with continued treatment. They have one more action

What types of algaecides exist?

It is important to know that there are two main types of algaecides. The first is known as FreeSince it is used to prevent the appearance and proliferation of algae, it is recommended to apply a little once a week. The second is used when algae has already appeared in your pool and you need to eliminate it. If you have never had problems with algae blooms, you do not need to buy and use a algicide, avoid that expense.

It is also important to note that when purchasing an algaecide, you have to take into account the components it uses to treat the problem. In the market they sell algaecides that are manufactured at copper base, ideal for treating yellow algae and other types of green algae, but it has a drawback, it can stain your pool if it is not used correctly.

If you do not want to use the copper-based algaecide, then you should use the algaecides  Quaternary o Polyquaternary. They are recommended to treat and prevent the growth of algae, they have greater advantages than copper. The only inconvenience that may arise is that foam is generated due to improper use. Algaecide

Copper-based algaecides

  • They are used to eliminate algae that have grown and have great action on different types of algae, especially yellow ones. The disadvantage is that the correct amount must be used to avoid blue stains on the surface of the pool.

Quaternary algaecides

  • They are safer than copper-based algaecides because they do not stain the pool. They are used to treat possible algae growth without generating foam if the correct quantities are used.

liquid ALGICIDE 10%

  • It is a high-spectrum algaecide product for sanitation and keeps pool water in good condition. It is characterized by eliminating all types of microalgae and bacteria that prevail in the water.

liquid ALGICIDE 20% concentrated

  • It eradicates all types of microalgae and bacteria present in the water and consists of a large-scale item, ideal for sanitation and keeping pool water clean.

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How to make homemade algaecide for swimming pools?

Option 2 Homemade algaecide

How to make algaecide with corn flour?

homemade anti-algae corn flour pool
anti-algae corn flour homemade natural pool

Why corn flour is a natural anti-algae

Cornmeal is a natural starchy algae killer for swimming pools. It is capable of effectively eliminating the presence of slimy bacteria without adding any chemical components that may affect your skin.

This method is effective against green, yellowish and black algae. Corn flour is effective against algae, as it is capable of eliminating the slimy intruder with its cellulose content.

Corn flour is rich in cellulose, which removes excess phosphorus from the water and kills algae.

Algae removal process with corn flour

There are a few steps to follow to effectively carry out the all-natural algae removal process.

Step 1 removal of algae with corn flour
  • Get a pair of pantyhose or long cotton socks. Grind the corn flour until you obtain a fine powder and fill the sock with it. If you are using a pair of socks, cut off a foot for this process.
Step 2 removal of algae with corn flour
  • One cup of cornmeal is enough for about 100 square feet of water. If your pool is really big, it would be wise to wear more than one pantyhose or socks. Tie the top of the sock and use a band to make sure the knot stays in place.
Step 3 removal of algae with corn flour
  • Place the cornmeal-filled pantyhose in the pool. Two things are likely to happen, the pantyhose may sink to the bottom of the pool or they may simply float. You don't need to worry as both ways are effective.
Step 4 removal of algae with corn flour
  • Wait for the cornmeal to completely dissipate in the water and then remove the stocking. Vacuum up excess dead algae. It is a fairly easy homemade algaecide.

Option 2 Homemade algaecide

How to make algaecide with copper sulfate?

natural anti-algae swimming pool baking soda
natural anti-algae swimming pool baking soda

Homemade algaecide with baking soda

Baking soda is another algae fighter that can be easily made at home.

SHowever, it does not kill bacteria instantly. It extracts bacteria from the roots and makes it easier to wash algae from the walls and base of the pool. Once this occurs, the algae inevitably die.


Process to add homemade algaecide with baking soda

  1. Pour the baking soda into the water and brush the walls and base of the pool.
  2. Be sure to scrub all corners, as algae can be found in hidden areas.
  3. The homemade algae killer for swimming pools ensures that bacteria are easily removed.
  4. Dead algae can be vacuumed later to keep the pool clean.

How is algaecide used in the pool?

anti-algae pool carafe
anti-algae pool carafe

Important: Handle the pool allgagas with personal protective equipment

It is important to note that all pesticides, including algaecides, must be implemented following the product label registered with the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).

When using algaecides, be sure to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, which will be recommended on the product label.

How is algaecide used in the pool?

Step 1: how to apply algaecide in the pool

Choosing the right pool algaecide

  • Choose the right algaecide for your pool based on the type of algae present. Some algaecide products are all-purpose, meaning they treat several types of algae. However, if you have a specific type of algae, choose the appropriate algaecide. For example, copper-based algaecide treats yellow algae best, while silver algaecide is effective on green and black algae.

Step 2 How is the algaecide prepared?

Determine the amount of pool anti-algae to add

  • Determine the amount of algaecide you should add to your pool. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the algaecide bottle for proper measurements. The dosage will be based on the gallons of water your pool holds. Before handling the algaecide, put on rubber gloves and eye protection to avoid skin burns and possible eye injuries.

Step 3: How to apply algaecide for swimming pools?

Brush bottom and walls of the pool

  • Scrub the bottom and sides of your pool before the first application of algaecide if the algae growth is heavy and pronounced. For this scenario, wait at least 24 hours before swimming in the pool.

Step 4 How to use anti-algae for swimming pools

Pour the dose of picinas antialgae

  • Pour the dose of algaecide into the water, depositing it in several areas around the pool. Your pool pump should be running at this time to help circulate the algaecide. Wait about 30 minutes before allowing anyone to swim after algaecide application.

Step 5: How to apply algaecide for swimming pools?

Vacuum the bottom of the pool

  • Vacuum the pool 24 hours after the first application of algaecide to remove dead algae remains in the pool. If algae is still visible in the water, repeat the algaecide application in the pool, following the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Consecutively, we give you the link of: how to clean the pool manually (in case you need it)

Video tutorial to remove algae from the pool

Video tutorial to remove algae from the pool

How much algaecide per liter of water?

Algaecide dosage per liter of water

  • Beginning of season: Apply 200 cm3 for every 10 m3 of water.
  • To prevent algae: Apply 50 cm3 every 10 m3 of water.
  • To eliminate algae: Apply 200 cm3 every 10 m3 of water.
  • Apply prevention dose weekly.

When should you add preventive anti-algae treatment to the pool?

pool anti-algae remedies

When to put the algaecide

How often should I use algaecide in my pool?

Follow the instructions of the manufacturer of your algaecide to apply maintenance doses of pool anti-algae.

Regardless, it is recommended to add maintenance algaecide to your pool water on a weekly basis (recommended every three to five days in high temperatures or if the pool is used a lot).

Algaecides act as a backup to your normal disinfection program and prevent algae from starting and growing in the pool.

Algaecide should be added after each shock treatment.

How to use anti-algae in the pool as a protective treatment?

  • Before applying the Algaecide, the pH of the water should be checked; it should be between 7.2 and 7.6.
  • And the level of free chlorine between 1 and 3 ppm, l
  • Then you must add Liquid Chlorine (3 L per 10 m3)
  • and then apply Algaecide, distributing it evenly over the surface of the pool.
  • Brush the walls and bottom of the pool with a brush, keep the filter in operation for 8 hours.

How to use pool anti-algae preventatively

Use pool anti-algae preventatively

You can add chlorine and anti-algae at the same time



Does the pool clarifier act as a pool anti-algae preventative?


Is the salt pool exempt from having green water?

Saltwater pools are not immune to algae

Green water salt pool: pools with salt chlorinator are not free of algae, learn to detect the types, prevent and eliminate.

As a reminder, 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.

Maintaining good maintenance of the salt chlorinator prevents algae in the pool

If the Salt Chlorinator works well and has the necessary amount of salt, it does not cause problems since it generates enough chlorine to keep the water in the correct state.

The downside, though, is that it can also facilitate algae growth if you let your pool chemistry drop even a little.

How the salt chlorinator works and maintenance

Next, we leave you a particular section about: How the salt chlorinator works and maintenance.

Treat the salt pool with green water

Table of contents of the page Is the salt pool exempt from having green water?

  • What are algae?
  • Is the saline pool exempt from having green water?
  • To eliminate green salt pool water, the super chlorination of the electrolysis equipment is not useful
  • How is the treatment of a green salt pool different from that of a pool disinfected with chlorine?
  • Before treating green water we must adjust the chemical values ​​of the pool water
  • How to eliminate green salt water in swimming pool?
  • After treatment, how long does it take for the green water in the salt pool to disappear?
  • Prevent algae in our saltwater pool
  • Prevent green pool water by knowing how your salt chlorinator works
  • Preventive maintenance of saltwater pool equipment

Recover green water from the pool

What tools and actions are appropriate to eliminate green water from the pool?

Individualized section in: Recover green water from the pool

Generic list with procedure to clean a green pool without emptying

Firstly, We quote the different steps of the procedure to eliminate green water from the pool and then we explain them to you, going into detail one by one:

Table of contents page: Quick and effective solutions to know how to clean green pool water

  • What is green pool water?
  • What tools do I need to remove green water from the pool?
  • 1st action: Clean green pool without emptying
  • 2nd procedure: What happens if the pool water remains green
  • 3rd procedure: What happens if the water turns green again
  • After treatment, how long does it take for the green water in the pool to disappear?