Keep Your Pool Algae Free: 8 Steps for Orlando Pool Owners

At Certified Pool Pros, we know how much you love your pool. We also know that an algae problem and a green pool can ruin your weekend. If you live in Lake Mary, Maitland, Winter Park, or Longwood, or anywhere in the Orlando area, you’ve probably dealt with pool algae at some point. This guide will help you understand and prevent algae growth so you can enjoy your pool all summer long.

What Is Algae and Why Is It in My Pool?

Algae are tiny plants that love warm water and sunshine, making Orlando’s swimming pools a perfect home for them. They get into your pool from the wind, rain, or even on swimsuits and pool toys. Once in your pool water, they can grow quickly if conditions are right. Pool algae come in many types, including green algae, yellow algae, black algae, and pink algae.

Common Types of Pool Algae:

Green Algae: This is the most common type. It makes your water look green and feels slimy.
Yellow Algae: Also called mustard algae, it grows in shady areas and is tougher to get rid of.
Black Algae: This is the hardest to treat. It looks like black spots and can dig into pool surfaces.

How Does Pool Algae Grow?

Several things can make your pool a friendly place for algae:

Low Chlorine Levels: Chlorine kills algae, so algae can grow if your levels are too low.
Poor Circulation: Algae love still water. If your pump isn’t running enough, you might have trouble spots.
Imbalanced pH Levels: If your water chemistry is off, chlorine won’t work as well.
Debris in the Pool: Leaves and dirt give algae the nutrients they need to grow.
High Phosphate Levels: Phosphates act as food for algae. They can get into your pool from rainwater, fertilizers, organic debris, and even your hose water. Even small amounts can contribute to algae growth.
Old, Rough Pool Surfaces: Just like tooth decay can occur more easily on rough or damaged teeth, algae can find tiny nooks and crannies to hide and grow in an old, rough surface. This makes it harder to clean and treat.

8 Tips to Prevent Pool Algae Growth

Stopping algae before it starts in your pool is the best plan. Here’s how:

Maintain Chlorine Levels: Regularly check your pool’s chlorine levels. They should be between 1-3 parts per million (ppm).
Run Your Pool Pump Daily: Your pool pump should run 8-12 hours daily to keep water moving.
Brush and Vacuum: Use a pool brush on your pool walls and floor weekly, and vacuum up any debris and remove algae from your pool.
Check pH and Alkalinity: Keep pH between 7.2 and 7.6 and total alkalinity between 80-120 ppm.
Shock Your Pool: “Shocking” means adding a lot of chlorine at once. Do this weekly or after heavy use to kill any starting algae.
Use Algaecide: Algaecide can help prevent algae growth. Be sure to follow the directions on the package.
Reduce Phosphates: If your phosphate levels are high, use a phosphate remover. Regularly cleaning your pool can also help reduce phosphate levels.
Maintain Your Pool Surface: If your pool surface is old and rough, consider resurfacing it. A smooth surface is less likely to harbor algae spores, making maintenance easier. PRO TIP – Maybe it’s time for a resurface.

8 Steps to Get Rid of Algae in Your Pool Water

If algae have already taken hold, here’s how to get rid of it:

Identify the Type of Algae: Knowing the type helps choose the right treatment.
Brush the Pool: Scrub the walls and floor to break up the algae, especially in rough areas.
Shock Your Pool: Add a high dose of chlorine to kill the algae. You may need to do this more than once.
Use an Algaecide: Apply algaecides per the instructions to help remove algae.
Run the Pump: Keep the water circulating for at least 24-48 hours.
Vacuum Your Pool: After the algae die, vacuum your pool to remove dead algae.
Clean Your Pool Filter: Backwash or clean your filter to get rid of any trapped algae.
Rebalance the Water: Test your pool water and adjust the chemicals to the correct levels.

Keeping Your Pool Water Algae-Free Long-Term

Consistent maintenance is key to preventing pool algae. Here are some tips:

Test Your Pool Water Often: Check your pool water chemical levels twice a week.
Get Professional Help: Even if you handle the basics of pool maintenance, a professional check-up can catch problems early.
Maintain Equipment: Keep your pool pump, pool filter, and other pool equipment in good shape.
Resurface Your Pool: If your pool surface is rough or damaged, resurfacing your pool can help prevent algae from finding hiding places.

Algae can be a pain, but you can help your pool stay clear with the right steps. By understanding what causes algae in your pool and how to prevent it, you’ll be able to enjoy your pool without worries. Certified Pool Pros is here for you if you need help or want a professional touch for pool maintenance. Contact us and have a sparkling pool all year round. Happy swimming!