NEED TO FIX A GREEN POOL?
Treating a green pool can be tricky and black spot algae can be particularly stubborn - it embeds itself deeply into the pool substrate, making it resilient to many standard treatments.
Why does a pool turn green?
A pool can turn green for several reasons, most commonly linked to poor water circulation and inadequate filtration or general pool care, which allow algae to grow. Environmental factors such as surrounding vegetation can introduce debris and contaminants, while poor sanitation and unbalanced water chemicals create ideal conditions for algae to thrive. High levels of phosphates, nitrates, or carbon dioxide in the water can further fuel this growth. In some cases, the issue may be due to “chlorine lock,” where chlorine is present but ineffective, leaving the pool unable to properly sanitise and resulting in green, cloudy water.
Eliminate Algae & Green Water
We treat green pools using the correct chemicals and proven methods to quickly restore water clarify and stop algae growth.
Identify the real reason your pool has turned green
We don't just treat the symptoms - we will find out exactly why the pool has turned green and fix the underlying issue to prevent it from happening again.
Thorough Pool Cleaning
We brush walls, steps and surfaces to remove the algae build up and debris.
What causes a green pool?
Amongst many reasons, the most common reasons for algae growth are poor filtration, water chemicals are out of balance, high phosphate levels, locked chlorine and equipment failure.
Restore Water Balance
Once your green pool is cleared, we will rebalance your water chemistry.
Ongoing Pool Maintenance is a Must
Regular pool services keep your pool clean, your chemicals correct and equipment checked. We offer flexible regular pool services as well as one off service calls. With 25+ years experience, we have seen almost all that can be the cause.
How to Fix and Prevent a Green Pool
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Maintain proper water circulation – run your pump daily for adequate hours
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Keep your filter clean and functioning correctly (regular backwashing or cartridge cleaning)
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Test and balance your water weekly (pH, chlorine, alkalinity, stabiliser)
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Ensure consistent sanitation – don’t let chlorine levels drop too low
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Shock the pool when needed (after heavy use, rain, or heatwaves)
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Remove debris promptly (leaves, dirt, and organic matter)
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Trim surrounding vegetation to reduce contamination
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Monitor and control phosphate levels if required
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Check for early signs of algae and treat immediately
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Avoid “chlorine lock” by keeping stabiliser (CYA) within correct range
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Regularly inspect equipment (pump, chlorinator, filter) to ensure it’s working efficiently
Green Algae:
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Commonality: Green algae is widespread and typically the easiest to treat among different algae types.
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Appearance: It appears as a greenish hue on pool surfaces, often forming in patches.
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Treatment: Regular sanitation and shocking the pool with chlorine can effectively eliminate green algae. Brushing and vacuuming the pool, along with maintaining proper chlorine levels, help prevent its recurrence.
Yellow / Mustard Algae:
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Challenges: Yellow or mustard algae can be troublesome to treat and often more resistant to standard chlorine treatments.
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Appearance: Usually manifests as yellowish or mustard-colored spots on pool surfaces, particularly in shady areas.
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Treatment: Requires a more comprehensive approach involving higher chlorine levels, brushing affected areas, and using specialized algaecides specifically designed for yellow algae. Regular scrubbing and maintenance are essential to prevent its return.
Black Algae:
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Difficulty: Black algae is notorious for its resistance and ability to embed itself into the pool walls, making it difficult to eradicate.
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Appearance: Forms as dark, black spots with a hardened outer layer that protects it from chlorine and other treatments.
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Treatment: Removal involves aggressive brushing to break the protective layer, followed by direct application of concentrated chlorine or specialized algaecides. Persistent treatment and ongoing maintenance are crucial to completely eliminate black algae.
Pink Algae (Paecilomyces Lilacinus):
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Nature: Contrary to its name, pink algae is not algae but a fungus called Paecilomyces Lilacinus.
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Appearance: Often mistaken for algae due to its slimy white, pink, or grey colonies forming in pools.
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Treatment: Requires different approaches than typical algae treatments. Using fungicides or specialized treatments targeting fungi is necessary to eliminate pink algae. Thorough cleaning and maintaining balanced pool chemistry can aid in preventing its growth.
Each type of algae or fungus requires a specific treatment approach tailored to its characteristics. Regular cleaning, brushing, proper chemical balance, and prompt treatment upon detection are essential for effective algae control and prevention in pools
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