You're returning from a few days of vacation and then... it's a disaster! Your pool water turned green, your slippery walls… There is no longer any doubt: in the absence maintenance, your pool has certainly turned. Indeed, a few days are enough to cause the appearance green algae in your pool, responsible for this green color – uninviting. If this mishap happens to you, don't panic! Most of the time, you'll get healthy, crystal-clear water back quickly… provided you identify the cause of the problem! Because yes, the appearance of green algae in your pool can be due to several factors.
Before you dive headfirst into a somewhat approximate treatment, discover our guide tounderstand, prevent, and correctly treatyour pool's green water.
The different causes of green pool water
The appearanceof green algaeinside your pool can be the result ofseveral factors, such as:
- a rapid increase in water temperature: water temperature has a direct impact on the development of green algae. This is why, duringperiods of intense summer heat, it is not uncommon to observe achange in the colorof your pond's water.
- a poor water balance:pH and TA(alkalinity) are two parameters that you must constantlybalance. When this is not the case, it leads toan imbalanceof other parameters – such as the disinfectant level, and therefore,the proliferation of green algaein your pool.
- too short a filtration time: regarding your pool's filtration time, remember that it must correspond to:your water temperature / 2. If it is lower, it is normal to observethe appearance of green algaein your pool.
Other factors can be responsible for green water. Indeed,water pollution(dead leaves, pollen, etc.) or evenheavy bather trafficcan contribute to the proliferation of green algae in your pool.
3 Steps to Get Rid of Green Algae in Your Pool
Now that you have identified the problem, discover the 3 steps to regain clean and healthy water :
- Perform a water analysis: this step involves checking the pH levelandthe alkalinity levelof your pool. Indeed, these two parameters play an essential role in the good health of your swimming pool. To be optimal, the pH should be between7 and 7.4. The alkalinity level, on the other hand, should be between120 and 180 PPM. Before moving on to the next step, it is imperative that your levels are correct. Indeed, otherwise, the chlorine you add to your pool will be inactive. Your pool will therefore tend to turn over more quickly.
- Perform a shock treatment: to do this, you must selectthe appropriate shock treatmentfor your pool's disinfectant: chlorine, bromine, or active oxygen. Refer to your product's instructions for the correct dosages.
- Clean your pool: once the shock treatment has been applied,let your filtration system runfor 48 hours. After this period, you should notice an improvement in the color of your pool. This will be the time for you to carry outa thorough cleaningof your pool: bottom, walls, skimmer baskets, etc. To clarify the water, you can useflocculantand run your filtration for 48 hours. If you have a cartridge filtration system, be careful! Flocculation can damage it. Do not hesitate to ask Aboral specialists for advice to make the right choice.
In summer, it is essential to devote more time tothe maintenance of your swimming pool. Thanks to our advice, you should be able to limitthe appearance of algae. If, despite everything, your pool continues to turn green, consider consultingour team of experts. They will be happy to advise you!
Configure your pool online Back to all news