No one wants to pull their pool cover back and find that their once clear water is now an unattractive shade of green. When you are looking to escape the Northeast Ohio and Erie, PA heat and take a refreshing swim, finding your pool not in the ideal condition can be devastating. We are going to review what causes green pool water and steps you can take to prevent a green pool this summer.
What Causes a Green Pool?
Before you can prevent a green pool, you need to understand what leads to it in the first place. Below are some common causes for a green pool.
- Improper pH Balance: Any non-moving body of water can collect bacteria and algae over time. Chlorine is added to swimming pools to kill the bacteria that can build up and lead to a discoloration of the water. Green water is usually a sign of algae, not bacteria, but every pool is different. If the pH balance of the water isn’t within the appropriate range, usually between 7.2 and 7.8 on the pH scale, it will allow bacteria to thrive.
- Clogged Pool Filter: A pool filter system is meant to keep the pool water clean and circulating. If your filter is clogged or not working properly it won’t strain out the surface algae and other debris. If your pool water is left still, your pool will become a breeding ground for mold, algae, and other fungi that can lead to a change in the color of the water.
- Weather Conditions: Yes, Mother Nature can play a part in your now green pool water. Algae flourishes in warm, humid temperatures. Regular chlorine may not be enough to stop the buildup of algae within a pool in the warmer months. If the pH level of your pool is good but you still have green issues, it is the result of algae buildup.
- Pollen and Other Allergens: We are familiar with pollen in Ohio and Pennsylvania. Pollen doesn’t just give people seasonal health issues, it can also impact the color of your pool water. Pollen is produced by nearby plants and trees and is carried through the wind to pool water. Pollen is too small for a standard pool filter to remove so it continues to build in the water throughout the year. As this happens, particles settle on the liner, and can be mistaken for algae. If left untreated, pollen can turn all of the water in the pool green.
What are Some Ways to Treat and Prevent a Green Pool this Summer?
- Keep Proper pH Levels: You should continuously test your water throughout the summer to ensure you are within the proper pH and alkaline level range. Being proactive and staying on top of your pool’s balance will help you to avoid a green pool caused by a pH level that is either too low or too high. If your pH level is too low, the water is acidic and over time that will cause plastic and metal components to erode. A pH level that is too high will not kill bacteria and will allow buildup of calcium and other minerals. Both could create a green pool.
- Use Algaecide: If the pH level of your pool is within the ideal range and your water is still green, it is the result of algae buildup. You can use an algaecide to help fight the algae. Algaecides are chemical compounds whose active ingredients kill algae and prevent it from growing in your pool. Different brands have different instructions for use, so you should always start with a minimal dose and increase it, as needed.
- Shock Treatment: Shock treatment is used when there are excessive levels of algae and other buildup in a pool that are keeping the water green or discolored, even when you are maintaining a desired pH balance. To solve for this, you “shock” the pool, which involves treating the pool with a large dose of chlorine and algaecide. Allow the pool to sit for 24 hours to kill off the algae and bacteria.
- Keep your Filters Clean: Pool filters are intended to be cleaned. They have buckets, baskets, and usually are built to be easily disassembled. If your filter is clogged and causing water issues, clean the filter. Most pools have a system where you can simply remove the filter, clean it with water and a scrub brush, and then replace it. Pools have different filters, so you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for removal and replacement of parts.
- Regular Pool Maintenance: The best way to prevent a green pool is regular maintenance. This includes vacuuming the bottom of the pool, scrubbing the walls, skimming the surface to remove debris and pollen, frequently cleaning the filter system, habitually checking the pH level, and adding chlorine on a regular basis.
Keeping your pool water crystal clear is a full-time job. At Litehouse Pools & Spas, we are here to help. We have all the chemicals and filter systems you need to keep the green away. If you would like to just sit back and relax and enjoy your pool, we’ve got you covered. We also offer pool maintenance packages where our professionals can handle the work for you.
Get in touch with us today by stopping by one of our locations, visiting us online, or giving us a call. We will ensure that the only thing green about your pool this summer is your neighbors’ envy when they see your sparkling clear water.