The Key to a Clean and Clear Swimming Pool

Owning a swimming pool can be a delightful experience, offering a refreshing escape during hot summer days and a place for relaxation and exercise. However, maintaining the pristine condition of a pool requires vigilance and the right products to prevent common issues, such as the growth of algae. One of the essential products in this maintenance arsenal is pool algaecide. However, not all algaecides are alike, only EPA-approved algaecides effectively kill algae.

The Role of Algaecide in Pool Maintenance

Pool algaecide is a chemical treatment specifically formulated to combat and act as an additional line of defense by either killing existing algae or preventing new algae from growing. They work by disrupting the cellular processes of the algae, effectively stopping their growth and reproduction.

Algae are microscopic plants that can quickly bloom in pools, especially in warm, sunny conditions. They are notorious for turning clear pool water into green, yellow, or black murky water, making swimming unpleasant and potentially unsafe.

While regular pool maintenance includes tasks such as filtration, vacuuming, and maintaining proper pH levels, these alone may not suffice in preventing algae.

Types of Pool Algaecides

There are several types of pool algaecides, each catering to diverse needs and types of algae:

• Quats (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds): Most common and cost-effective algaecides. They effectively treat most pool algae by breaking down their cell walls. However, they can sometimes cause foaming in the water.
• Polyquats / Polymer Algaecides: These are used commonly in areas with water agitation like spas or fountains. They are non-foaming algaecides that are 2x more potent than regular quats. They can be used for treating several algae issues as well as regular preventative maintenance.
• Copper-Based Algaecides: These algaecides contain copper ions, which are highly effective against resistant types of algae such as mustard, stubborn green and black algae. However, overuse can lead to staining of the pool surfaces and hair discoloration.
• Sodium Bromide: This can only be used on systems with bromine and chlorine compounds. It is a unique solution that efficiently targets and eradicates mustard algae and black algae.

Selecting the optimal algaecide for your swimming pool involves considering a formula tailored to address specific requirements, including:

• Type of algae
• Age of algae
• Budget constraints
• Severity of the algae problem
• Sunlight and water temperature
• Presence of bacteria (It should be noted that pink or red algae are actually types of bacteria that thrive around PVC pipes, lights, behind ladders and shaded areas.)

Recommended Algaecides at Watercrafters

Consult a professional to ensure your chemical treatment is safe for your pool, equipment, and swimmers.

BioGuard Algae Complete® : Algae Complete® is a dual-action formula that combines polyquat and copper-based ingredients to effectively kill a wide range of algae. It is part of the BioGuard 3-Step Poolcare System.

BioGuard Back Up® 2: Back Up® 2 is a quat algaecide and is effective at preventing and controlling algae growth in pools. It features an intense wetting agent that allows it to permeate into small crevices and cracks–targeting the hidden spots where algae often lurks. It is not recommended for spas or pools with water features. It is part of the BioGuard 3-Step Poolcare System.

BioGuard Algae All 60®: Algae All 60® is a polyquat that works in brominated and chlorinated pools. It prevents all types of algae and is part of the BioGuard 3-Step Poolcare System.

Poolife^™ Defend+^™: Algaecide: This advanced, multifunctional, non-foaming polyquat algaecide and clarifier effectively treats and prevents green, black, and mustard algae, while also ensuring the clarity of pool water. Defend+^™: is Step 3 in the MPT Extra^™ System — use with MPT Extra^™ and TurboShock.

Watercrafters’ Super Algae Killer Package: This We have put together a Super Algae Killer package to knock out nearly any type of algae you may have. Ideal to add during the pool opening if the pool is opening a dark green or dark brown. The package consists of a shock treatment, algaecide and enzyme product.

Common Questions about Pool Algaecide

1. Can You Swim After Adding Algaecide?

It is generally safe to swim after adding algaecide to your pool, but it is recommended to wait at least 15 minutes to allow the chemical to disperse properly. Always check the product label for specific instructions.

2. Can Algaecide Cause Foaming?

Some algaecides, particularly quats, can cause foaming in the water. If foaming occurs, using a non-foaming algaecide or reducing the dosage can help.

3. How Often Should You Use Algaecide?

The frequency of algaecide use depends on various factors, including pool usage, weather conditions, and the type of algaecide. As a preventive measure, it is often sufficient to use algaecide once a week or after heavy rain or increased pool use.

4. Can You Use Too Much Algaecide?

Using too much algaecide can lead to issues such as foaming, staining, or cloudy water. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the correct dosage for your pool size.

Using pool algaecide correctly is crucial for its effectiveness. Make sure you stop into Watercrafters with your pool water for a professional water analysis and discuss the steps that you need to take for proper usage.

Preventing algae growth is always better than treating an established bloom. Some preventative measures you can take are maintaining proper chlorine levels, shocking your pool regularly, brushing & vacuuming regularly. Be sure to maintain the proper chemical balancing levels appropriate to your pool.

Pool care can feel overwhelming—especially when algae takes over. That’s where Watercrafters comes in. We are here to take the stress off your shoulders, so you can enjoy your backyard sanctuary without the hassle. From water treatments to weekly maintenance, our expert team has you covered.

📞 Call today 301.948.8111 for a free quote or to schedule your service. We can’t wait to help you Make Poolside Living Easy!