Algae Prevention Tips

Nearly every pool owner has had to deal with algae problems at one time or another. Even with a properly working filtration system, sanitizers at their recommended levels, and a watchful eye, algae blooms can still develop. Pool service companies spend countless hours on the quest for algae free water. A good friend and owner of Action Pool Repair in Alamo, Greg Smith, was always coming up with innovative pool repair and cleaning ideas. One of our last conversations before his passing was about minimizing algae growth by filtering down one or two 2 microns (daily) so algae could not grow.As pool professionals, we can ensure your water is perfectly filtered and prepared to combat algae, what we can’t control is the amount of debris and other contaminants that enter into the water.Algae spores can enter a pool in a variety of different ways, but is most commonly introduced into a pool through wind, rain, dirt, and even on a swimmer’s body or bathing suit. Keeping algae spores out of your pool is impossible, so it is important to prevent the microscopic spores from turning into unsightly algae blooms. Maintaining clean, algae-free water will help keep your pool and your family happy and healthy. More chlorine is not the answer nor is adding toxic metals to kill algae. At Atlantis Pools, we have not used any harmful algaecides in our client’s pools in more than two years. We only use enzymes and phosphate removers and this technique has lead to the least amount of algae we have seen in 20 years. We aim to take as natural approach as possible as any chemical you come in contact with can be absorbed into your skin and lead to negative effects.Other important factors in eliminating algae are filter running time and brushing the pool.  We recommend running your pump and filter between 6 and 8 hours a day, and you can even increase the cycle to between 10 and 12 hours during times of heavy swimmer usage. Routinely checking and cleaning your skimmer, pump, and filter will help keep your pool clean and algae free. Also, develop a weekly brushing routine. Pool walls, floors, and steps are the most common places to find algae in your pool. If left untreated, algae can burrow their roots inside the cracks on these surfaces, making them very difficult to remove. Brush the pool walls, steps, and floor at least once a week (more if necessary) to prevent algae growth from forming in your pool.