It’s not unusual for algae to develop in a swimming pool. Its spores could blow into the water, or it could be introduced by some other means, like a beach toy that’s contaminated. It’s important to understand how to prevent this problem to protect your pool’s integrity, since algae can affect everything from filtration to sanitation. Here are three tips to keep in mind.

How to Prevent Algae from Growing in Your Pool

1. Clean the Pool Regularly

Make it a habit to clean your pool and all related surfaces at least once every week. Brush the walls and floors, swim the surface, and vacuum the pool. If your property is surrounded by trees and it’s constantly exposed to contaminants, you may even want to clean it a couple of times a week during swim season. Look for signs of algae growth, and pay special attention to areas where circulation is minimal. Algae is more likely to thrive there.

2. Test the Pool Water

Imbalanced water provides a hospitable environment for algae to thrive. This is why it’s crucial to test the swimming pool water regularly. The free chlorine level, which refers to the chlorine that kills off algae and contaminants, should be above 1 ppm and below 4 ppm. Anything lower than 1 ppm indicates that the water is unsanitary, which promotes algae formation and encourages it to thrive.  

3. Shock the Pool Water

If the free chlorine level is low, you’ll need to shock the water to boost the level. It’s considered a “shock” because it can raise the level significantly over what is considered a normal level. If your shock product contains chlorine that’s not stable, you should add it to the water at night. This will prevent harsh ultraviolet rays from corrupting the shock. Always wait at least eight hours before using the pool after the treatment.

If you seek a reliable professional to install a high-quality swimming pool at your Onalaska, WI, home, turn to the team at HotSpring Spas & Pools. They carry an extensive selection of high-quality in-ground pools and accessories. Visit the website for more information about their products, or call (608) 788-7747 to speak with a representative.