How to Fix a Green Pool

You glance out your window, the sun casting a warm glow over your backyard – but there it is, the unsightly green tinge of your pool, disrupting the tranquillity of your oasis. It's a common plight for pool owners, yet one that often causes undue stress.

At Poolclean, we understand that seeing your pool turn green can be disheartening. It's not just about the colour; it's about your comfort, health, and the joy of enjoying a clear, inviting pool. This article is here to guide you through each step of fixing a green pool, ensuring you not only solve the problem but also understand the hows and whys of each action.

From diagnosing the issue to detailed, practical solutions, we'll cover everything you need to bring your pool back to life. You'll learn about the common causes of algae growth, the importance of chemical balance, and the steps to effectively treat your pool. And should the task seem overwhelming, remember, Pool Clean GC team of experienced professionals is always a call away.

Why Do Pools Turn Green?

The primary culprit here is algae, a microscopic plant-like organism that thrives in pool water under certain conditions. Understanding how and why algae grow is the first step in reclaiming your pool’s cleanliness and aesthetic.

Algae Growth in Pools

Algae spores are naturally present in the environment and can easily find their way into your pool through the wind, rain, or even contaminated pool equipment and swimwear. Once in the pool, these spores can rapidly multiply, especially in warm, stagnant water that's rich in nutrients. This rapid growth is what turns your pool water green.

Role of pH and Chlorine Levels

The growth of algae is heavily influenced by the chemical balance of your pool water, particularly the pH and chlorine levels. The pH level of your pool water determines how acidic or alkaline it is. Ideally, pool water should have a pH level between 7.2 and 7.6. If the water becomes too acidic or too alkaline, it creates an environment conducive to algae growth.

Chlorine, on the other hand, is the sanitiser commonly used to keep pools clean. It's effective at killing algae and bacteria, but only when maintained at the right levels. If your pool has insufficient chlorine, it won't be able to combat algae growth, leading to that dreaded green hue.

Potential Health Hazards

A green pool isn't just an eyesore; it can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria like E. coli or Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can cause skin, ear, and respiratory infections. Swimming in a pool with an algae bloom can also lead to skin irritation and other health issues.

Damage to Pool Surfaces and Equipment

Algae can do more than just discolour your water; it can also damage your pool's surfaces and equipment. If left unchecked, algae can clog filters and reduce the efficiency of your pool's circulation system. Over time, it can cause staining on pool surfaces, making them slippery and hazardous.

Assessing Your Pool’s Condition

Before diving into the green depths to restore clarity, it's crucial to understand the current state of your pool's water. Testing the water is your first and most important step.

Why Water Testing is Essential

You might wonder, "Why can't I just add chemicals and be done with it?" Well, treating a pool without testing is like cooking a complex dish without tasting it – you won't know what's missing or excessive. Your pool could be green due to a variety of reasons: it could be a pH imbalance, insufficient chlorine, or a combination of several factors. Water testing gives you a clear picture of what’s happening in your pool, allowing you to treat it effectively and efficiently.

How to Use a Pool Testing Kit

Using a pool testing kit is straightforward. Here’s how you do it:

1. Collect a Water Sample: Dip a clean cup about elbow-deep into your pool, away from the skimmer or return jets, to get an unbiased sample.
2. Apply the Test Reagents: Follow the instructions on your testing kit. Typically, you'll add specific reagents to the water sample. These chemicals react with the pool water to indicate different levels.
3. Compare the Results: Match the colour of your sample water to the colour chart provided with your kit. This colour-matching will tell you the current levels of various chemicals in your pool.

Understanding Ideal Chemical Levels

Now, let’s talk about what you’re looking for in these tests:

•       pH Level: This should be between 7.2 and 7.6. A balanced pH ensures that chlorine works effectively and minimizes irritation to swimmers' eyes and skin.
•       Chlorine Level: Aim for 1-3 parts per million (ppm). Chlorine is your main warrior against algae and bacteria.
•       Alkalinity: Ideal levels are between 80 and 120 ppm. Proper alkalinity helps stabilize pH levels.
•       Stabiliser (Cyanuric Acid): If you use chlorine, maintaining a stabilizer level of 30-50 ppm is crucial. It helps prevent chlorine from degrading under sunlight.

Fixing Your Green Pool

Transforming your green pool back to a sparkling oasis might seem daunting, but with the right approach and a bit of know-how, it's entirely within your reach.

Adjusting pH Levels

First things first, the pH level of your pool is crucial. It's like the foundation for a healthy pool. You want to aim for a pH level between 7.2 and 7.6. This balance ensures that the chlorine in your pool can work effectively without being too harsh on your skin and eyes.

How to adjust pH

1. Test your water using a reliable pool testing kit.
2. If the pH is too high, you'll need a pH decreaser, commonly known as muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate. For a pH that's too low, a pH increaser, typically soda ash, is what you need.
3. Follow the instructions on the product for the correct dosages, as it varies based on your pool size and current pH level.

Remember, after adjusting the pH, let the pool water circulate for a few hours before retesting and making any further adjustments.

Shocking the Pool

Shocking the pool is your next big step. It's essentially super-chlorinating your pool to kill off bacteria and algae. This process is vital, especially if your pool has turned green.

How to shock your pool

1. Choose a pool shock product – calcium hypochlorite is a popular choice.
2. Follow the instructions on the packet. Typically, you'll dissolve the shock in a bucket of water before adding it to the pool.
3. Add the shock to your pool in the evening and leave the pump running overnight. This allows the shock treatment to work without being affected by the sun’s UV rays.

Selecting the Right Algaecide

With your pool shocked, it's time to bring in the algaecide. Algaecides are designed to kill existing algae and prevent new growth.

Choosing an algaecide

1. Look for algaecides that are specific to the type of algae in your pool. For green algae, a quaternary ammonium or a copper-based algaecide works well.
2. Read the label for proper dosage instructions and whether it's safe for your pool type.

Applying Algaecide

Application steps:

1. Pour the recommended amount of algaecide directly into the pool.
2. Run your pump for at least 24 hours to distribute the algaecide evenly.

Brushing and Vacuuming the Pool

Physical pool cleaning plays a big role in clearing out your pool.

Cleaning process

1. Brush the walls and floor of your pool to loosen algae.
2. Use a pool vacuum to remove the loosened algae and debris. This might need to be done several times over a few days.

Cleaning and Running the Pool Filter

Lastly, don't forget your filter – it's the unsung hero in keeping your pool clean.

Filter maintenance

1. Clean or backwash your filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures it's working efficiently to remove the dead algae and other particles.
2. Run your pool filter continuously for at least 24-48 hours after treatment.