What do you see when you look at your pool? Sparkling clear water or nasty, green floaties? If it’s the latter, you’ve got an algae problem that must be addressed. Without prompt attention, the algae will only grow worse and potentially, cause health issues for any swimmers brave enough to enter the pool.
At Royal Pool & Spa, we know how persistent algae can be unless you tackle it properly. Below, we explain what causes pool algae, what you can do about it, and why it’s not something you want in your pool.
What’s the Problem With Algae?
It’s easy to assume algae are relatively harmless, especially in a residential pool. But that assumption could put you and anyone else who uses your pool at risk. Depending on the species, algae can cause a variety of health problems when they come into contact with the human respiratory tract or skin, including:
● Minor to severe skin irritation
● Difficulty breathing
● Eye, throat, or nose irritation
● Headaches
● Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Because algae exposure has the potential to trigger health issues, it’s important to remedy the problem promptly if it develops in your pool. Below, we’ve outlined 3 common causes of pool algae and what you can do to help prevent it from growing out of control.
1. Wind and Weather
Because algae grow from spores that are present everywhere outdoors, a simple breeze can blow those spores into your pool water. Rainwater also carries thousands of algae spores and even a slight drizzle can deposit them in your pool.
Even a pool enclosure won’t prevent spores from making their way inside your pool because algae spores are incredibly tiny and prolific. However, an enclosure will help prevent other debris from entering your pool that could potentially accelerate algae proliferation.
While there’s really no way to effectively prevent spores from entering your pool, keeping up with routine pool maintenance will ensure algae spores cannot grow. Because sanitization and pH chemicals effectively kill the spores, it’s important to maintain a regular pool maintenance schedule.
2. Improper Water Chemistry
When the pH balance of your pool water is incorrect, it encourages algae growth. The appropriate pH for a pool is between 7.4-7.6, which allows for proper sanitization and discourages organic growths.
Different species of algae grow rapidly at varying pH ranges, so it’s important to maintain water that is neither too acidic nor too alkaline. If you’re unsure how to properly balance your pool chemicals or sanitize the water, set up a pool maintenance schedule with your local pool company.
3. Pool Equipment Problems
When your pool equipment doesn’t function properly, it can create ideal conditions for algae proliferation. Poor filtration or water circulation will result in stagnant water, which, much like a pond, is highly conducive to the development of organic growths. Whether you’re struggling with a sudden algae bloom or long-term persistent growth, one or more of the following equipment issues may be at fault:
● Improperly sized or damaged pool filter
● Overheating pool pump
● Air or water leaks in the pool pump
● Broken or clogged pump impeller
● A faulty chlorinator or multiport valve
Regardless of which piece of equipment is causing the issue, prompt repair is essential, not only to prevent ongoing algae growth but also to prevent further pool damage. A professional can inspect your equipment and perform the appropriate pool repair services or parts replacement, if necessary.
Schedule Swimming Pool Maintenance With Royal Pool & Spa
If your pool has algae and you can’t get rid of it, our team at Royal Pool & Spa is here to help. We specialize in pool maintenance schedules, pool repair services, and swimming pool renovations for homeowners throughout the Twin Cities metro. All of our technicians have a minimum of 10 years of experience, so when we work on your pool, you can trust in a job well done. To request a quote or schedule an appointment, give us a call today at 651-779-7606 or connect with us online, and we’ll be in touch!