Algae is a common issue in Australian pools, especially in our hot climate. Left untreated, algae can turn your pool into a frustrating maintenance nightmare. Here's how to effectively remove and prevent three common types of pool algae:

Green Algae (Normal Algae)                           Yellow Algae (Mustard Algae)                           Black Algae (Blackspot)

 

Green Algae (Normal Algae)

Green algae is the most common type and the easiest to treat. It often appears as a green, slimy layer on pool surfaces or as free-floating algae in the water. If the algae is all over the pool, brushing it will just suspend it in the water. If this is the case, use the Recover My Pool tool.

How to Remove Green Algae:

1. Brush the Surfaces: Scrub all affected surfaces thoroughly to break up the algae.
2. Shock the Pool: Add a high dose of chlorine to kill the algae (2L per 10,000L).
3. Run the Pump: Keep the pool pump running continuously for 24 hours to circulate the chlorine and filter out dead algae.
4. Clean the Filter: Backwash or clean your filter to remove trapped algae.

 

Yellow Algae (Mustard Algae)

Yellow algae is a stubborn variety that thrives in shady, low-circulation areas. It often reappears if not completely eradicated and is commonly introduced from external sources like the beach, rivers, or contaminated swimsuits and toys.

How to Remove Yellow Algae:

1. Brush Thoroughly: Scrub all pool surfaces, especially shaded areas and crevices.
2. Superchlorinate the Pool: Shock the pool with a chlorine dose of 30 ppm or higher (6L per 10,000L). Add acid into the opposite corner of the pool (600ml per 10,000L). Use a product specifically designed to target mustard algae.
3. Add Algaecide: Apply a copper based algaecide for mustard algae after shocking the pool. If you have a vinyl or fibreglass surface use a non-copper algaecide.
4. Run the Pump: Throw anything exposed to the mustard algae into the pool (toys, inflatables, swimsuits, your cleaner, pool scoops, poles, etc). Circulate the water for 48–96 hours to ensure treatment reaches all areas. Vigorously brush the surface daily.

 

Black Algae (Blackspot)

Black algae is the toughest type to remove. It forms dark, stubborn spots with a protective coating, often on rough surfaces like pool plaster or tiles.

How to Remove Black Algae (Blackspot):

1. Brush the Area: Use a stiff-bristled brush to agitate the algae. It may feel like you're doing nothing, but this step is crucial to break the algae’s protective layer.
2. Granular Chlorine Application:
   • On Floors: Turn the pump off for 24 hours and pour granular chlorine directly onto the black spots.
   • On Steps: Pour granular chlorine over the area, ensuring it covers the algae completely.
   • In the Deep End: Use a pool pole and funnel to target the algae with granular chlorine.
   • On Walls: Mix granular chlorine with water to create a thick paste. Apply the paste directly onto the algae using a sponge or pool brush.
3. Brush Again: After the chlorine sits for 24 hours, brush the area thoroughly.
4. Restart the Equipment: Turn the pump back on and run the system to filter out any remaining algae.

 

Prevention Tips

• Maintain proper chlorine levels (3–5 ppm) and ensure pH is below 7.6ppm.
• Run your pump for at least 8–12 hours daily in summer to ensure good circulation.
• If you need help figuring out why your chlorine levels are too low, send us an email with:
• A photo of your pool & equipment,
• Your chemical readings.