There are various reasons your pool can end up hosting algae, but with the technology and resources for pool owners available nowadays, there’s no reason you should get a buildup if you follow the best practices.

Keep up sanitiser levels

If you follow the instructions of your chosen sanitiser properly, you should be keeping the level of the product in the pool up to the required level at all times. During times when the pool is getting used heavily, make sure to check these levels daily and add more as required. Don’t be afraid of being too attentive: it’s better to keep on top of this in the first place and avoid having to clean out the pool if an algae infestation takes hold.

Ensure the water is moving

Algae loves still water, so don’t give it the chance to grow by leaving the water stagnant. Most modern pools have energy efficient variable speed pumps that can be left on day and night during the season when your pool is most in use. This way, you won’t need to use up too much power to keep the water flowing, but you’ll be able to rest in the knowledge that the conditions for algae growth are being avoided.

Don’t leave the pool unused

Next to leaving stagnant water, the worst thing you can do to allow algae to grow in your pool is to leave it unused for long periods of time. Having people go in and use the pool stirs up the water, meaning the skimmer can more effectively catch particles that could facilitate algae growth. Overall, this means your pool will be filtered better.

Check the filter

If the filter to your pool gets clogged, it can make it much easier for algae to start growing. By checking it regularly, you’ll be able to prevent a buildup from occurring. Since an algae bloom can occur more or less overnight, checking your filter each day (ideally at the end of a pool session) is a good idea. Depending on how heavily you’re using the pool, cleaning the filter may be required every couple of days or once a week.

Use an algaecide if necessary

If your pool does develop a buildup of algae, the fastest and most efficient method of getting rid of it is to use an algaecide. There are two main types of algaecide: quaternary ammonia and metallic, both of which are very effective, but each has its downside. Quaternary ammonia has a tendency to foam up, but it is cheaper and does not stain your pool. Metallic algaecide on the other hand is more costly and may leave a slight (though not unpleasant) blue-green stain on the tiles of your pool as it is made of silver and copper.

Overall, it is relatively easy to keep a pool free from algae from the outset by following these basic steps. Consider taking some time each day to check on your pool and keep it looking and feeling clean. That way, you’ll be able to enjoy taking a dip whenever you feel like it!