Algal bloom can be dangerous and detrimental to health at times. Firstly, it makes the pool water unhygienic, and secondly, the pool’s beauty is compromised.
You probably already know a few things about algal growth, but how can you deal with it? We’ve got you covered with a few hacks for an algae-free weekend.
If the pool is not maintained on a scheduled basis, it gets dirty sooner and is unhygienic which is not uncommon. The algal bloom is a common problem both in and aboveground.
Table of Contents
Indicators of Algal Attack in the Pool
Technically, algae float in the water almost every time, whether or not it is noticed.
As it can be present at such a small level that it gets almost invisible but becomes problematic when the algae spread quickly and make the pool completely dirty.
Discoloration of the pool water is the critical tell-tale sign of algal presence. The pool water will start to gradually turn dull and overcast with the algal blooms.
The corners of the stairs and pool shell where the surface water meets will start to change color and eventually form a green-colored line denoting the presence of algae. The bluish or greenish color is usually seen.
These signs indicate that now is the time to clean the pool and it’s still never too late.
4 Methods to Get Algae Out of the Pool Without a Vacuum
Even after proper maintenance of the pool’s pump and filters, algae can find its way into your pool. So, mastering the inexpensive ways to remove algae from the pool will be so useful.
The algae grow not only on the surface but also at the bottom of the pool. Therefore, both the surface and bottom need to be cleaned.
Use of Algaecide
Algaecide is used to quickly kill algae as -cide means to kill.
Algaecides are a potential and smarter way to clear out algae completely from the water.
Versatile kinds of algaecides are available in the market to specific algae such as green algae, yellow algae, black algae, blue algae, and others. Multi-purpose algaecides can also be used for removing a mixture of algal species.
Most people tend to use an algaecide to remove germs and bacteria but it can also be very effective in removing algae also.
How to use
- After choosing the right algaecide, turn on the pool pump and let the water circulate for a few minutes.
- Add 16 ounces of algaecide for every 10,000 gallons of water in the pool. Work out the math for your pool size!
- Now, it’s time to patiently let the algaecide do its job.
- The filter needs to run for at least 12 to 24 hours so that all the algae is effectively removed from the pool.
Using pool shock products to remove algae
A shock product is used to alter the supply nature of the product in which it is used. A super-hit shock product to kill algae is calcium hypochlorite.
Before starting, it is important to use goggles and hand gloves as accidental spills or touching calcium hypochlorite with bare hands can be damaging to your soft tissues.
How to Use
- Firstly, fill 5 gallons of water in a clean bucket and add one pound of calcium hypochlorite pool shock. Use this reference ratio and adjust according to your pool size.
- Mix the pool shock well until it is properly diluted and then directly pour the mixture into the affected area.
- One dose is sufficient to kill most algal attacks. In some cases, using twice is recommended based on attack levels.
- It is best to apply at night and also run the filters for 6 to 8 hours. While you are sleeping, the calcium hypochlorite releases chlorine and kills algae.
- Remove the dead algae using filters in the morning.
Clean the Pool Filter
If your pool is attached with filters, then things can get smooth and easier without the need for a vacuum. This is because the filter removes dirt to its capacity and keeps the pool clean.
Cleaning the filter at frequent intervals will reduce the stress on filters and ensure a long run for the filters.
Removing the debris with a filter will be much easier and less time-consuming than without filters.
With Filters
- Initially, clean the filter and brush your pool’s wall thoroughly to remove all the dead algae.
- Turn on the filter and let it run for few a hours.
- Use a garden hose with attachments to remove some sturdy algae at the bottom of the pool.
Without Filters
- Brush the sturdy algae from the pool shell and sweep it all.
- Pile up the debris without scattering. Add pool flocculants to coagulate the dead algae.
- With the help of a dustpan, remove the algal debris from the pool.
Clean the Pool Pump
Where there is stagnant water, there are algae.
Algae thrive in water that has no circulation and is stagnant for a long time. So to stop the algae from attacking the pool quickly, make sure to circulate the water in the pool.
Pool pump motors are the best way to avoid algal chaos amidst your relaxing day.
Cleaning is the only solution to keep anything clean, isn’t it a bit tricky? Clean the motors to make sure that it is clog-free. This is because clogged filters can let the chaos seep into your pools again.
You can use a pump strainer and pool skimmer to clean the pool pump.
Clean the Skimmer & Pump Basket
With your skimmer and pumps baskets full of debris, you are not pulling as much water to the pump, and not filtering as much water as if the baskets were kept clean. This can have a negative effect on your pool maintenance.
When the baskets are clogged, your pump has to work harder to try to cycle the water. Seals in your pump can become stressed when the baskets become clogged.
You do not draw as much water to the pump and filter as much water when your skimmer baskets and pump baskets are full of debris which can cause algae to stay in your pool. This can negatively affect your pool preservation.
Cleaning the Pump Basket
Take the pump lid off. Wash the basket with a garden hose. When a basket becomes brittle, it can break easily. If the contents of a basket are completely dry, it is easiest to clean it. The easiest way to perform this task is to rotate a spare pump basket with the dirty one.
Replace the pump basket if necessary if the basket shows signs of damage.
Reinstall the basket. Check that the filter valve is positioned in “filter” mode.
Close the air relief valve when a steady stream of water can be seen coming from it.
Cleaning the Skimmer Basket
Disconnect the pool pump and remove the skimmer lid. Empty the skimmer basket then place it back in the skimmer.
Prevention and Maintenance
As we all know, prevention is better than cure. You can easily maintain and prevent the growth of algae by using the following tips.
- Do a regular check on your pump to make sure the water circulation is proper.
- Shocking pools on a regular basis will increase chlorine levels which makes it not suitable for algae to grow.
- Brush the pool shell regularly to avoid green lines of algae on the walls.
- Use algaecide regularly.
- Use a vacuum if necessary.
- Cover your pool during winter with a good pool cover.
Also, read
- Best Shock Alert Review
- Pool Patrol PA-30 Pool Alarm Review
- Hayward W3DE6020 ProGrid Diatomaceous Earth Pool Filter
- WaterWarden Inground Swimming Pool Safety Net Review
