Why did my pool turn green?
Whilst there are many reasons for a green pool, the short answer is algae.
As algae causes algae, and it grows more rapidly in warmer water it is no surprise that in the hot summer months your pool can turn green almost overnight.
Sometimes, if the pool is just starting to turn, and you catch it in time, the solution is fairly inexpensive and quick to fix.
On the other hand, if it has turned a dark green and you can hardly see the bottom of the pool (if at all) you have a slightly bigger problem on your hands.
Book in a service call 0432 105 352
Can I swim in a green pool?
We often have people ask us if it is okay that they still swim in a green pool. The short answer is that it is not recommended (even if your pool is only slightly green) as algae is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that feed on the algae. This bacteria in your pool can pose health risks, including skin rashes, ear infections and eye infections.
Algae in swimming pools can even spread E-coli amongst other vicious germs.
So how do you fix a green pool?
Chlorine is an affective sanitiser, but if chlorine levels drop, even for a day, algae can blossom. It's important to check chlorine levels often, to ensure you keep on top of your chlorine levels.
(Keep a check on your filtration equipment, chlorine production and ensure your baskets are emptied.)
Depending on the severity of the green pool, a good dose of chlorine will often do the trick. The quantity will depend on the size of your pool and the extent of the algae. We also often recommend leaving your pool on manual overnight, to really dose the pool with chlorine production.
You should also :
Remove the pool cleaner from the pool
Brush the walls and floor to dislodge the algae into the pool water
Rake up leaves and debris from the bottom of the pool
Ensure all skimmer and pump baskets are empty (to maximise water filtration)
Backwash the filter (how to backwash a sand filter)
Return the sand filter value back to the "filter" position
Turn the pump on.
If you have a cartridge filter, you aren't able to backwash the filter, but rather, you should take out the filter element, hose the cartridge down really well, trying to get in and clean between each of the folds. Put the cartridge filter back in, reseat the lid and then turn the pump on.
When the pool is clear, it's always a good idea to test for phosphates to prevent algae from re-blossoming.
Top Tip: Chlorine works best when you pH is between 7.0 - 7.4 Why does pH matter?
Interesting fact: As the chlorine starts to work, and kills the algae, your pool will often go a bit cloudy before the filter manages to fully filter the water clear. This is normal
If you need more information or a little help, please book in a service call 0432 105 352