As a leading professional pool cleaning company in Houston, our team understands that algae can be the most aggravating part of having a swimming pool. Many pool owners are looking for ways to keep it in check. But, what is pool algae, and is it bad?
Algae is a living plant organism that can inhibit your pool and multiply speedily, resulting in clogged filters. It can also lead to poor water circulation and make pool chemicals ineffective. Algae can enter your pool through rain, wind, or swimmers, and it flourishes in a pool with dirty water or debris.
Different types of algae can grow in your swimming pool, but green algae are the most common. You can find green algae floating in your pool or on the walls. As a result, the swimming pool will become less clear, and the water will look green. If uncontrolled, green algae can grow in thick sheets and become slimy.
What Causes Green Algae in My Pool?
Lack of proper treatment with sanitizing chemicals like chlorine can be the leading cause of green algae in your pool. Also, if you haven’t treated your pool enough, your pool water pH is probably high, and algae thrives well at high pH levels. When the swimming pool lacks adequate sanitization and water circulation, you will notice green algae forming.
Poor filtration, either due to an ineffective filter or short filter run times, is another cause of algae. That is why it is vital to keep pool water moving. Combining all these factors can allow green algae to form, even in just a few hours on a sunny day.
Algae loves dark places with no water circulation, including pool steps, under the pool ladder, and in corners, crevices, and creases.
Is Green Algae in My Pool Harmful?
Considering how green algae is common, it’s fortunate that it is not directly harmful to swimmers. However, when you swim in a pool with algae, you will notice the slimness it leaves on your skin. Although the green algae can’t harm you, the bacteria developing from and feeding on algae can be dangerous if one comes in contact with it.
Green algae can also be slippery, resulting in unintentional injuries like cuts, bumps, bruises, and broken bones. Apart from causing severe injuries, a pool infested with algae can increase the chances of drowning, especially for those learning how to swim. You can also suffer bacterial infections if you accidentally ingest water with algae and other bacteria. This bacteria can result in diarrhea, fever, and other symptoms. Additionally, contaminated pool water can cause eye infections. Leaving algae untreated for extended periods of time can also result in permanent damage to your pool. In extreme cases, the damage is irreversible, and the only solution is replastering the entire pool.
Algae can cloud your pool’s clarity significantly. In a drowning situation, prompt notice and rescue can increase the chances of saving the victim. However, a pool infested with algae can be discolored, which can make it more challenging to notice when someone is drowning.
How Do You Prevent Pool Algae?
Recommended chemical balance and proper sanitizer levels will hinder algae from blooming. Remember, low chlorine and high pH levels are the starting point of algae inhibition. General cleaning of the pool is paramount, as bacteria and organic material facilitate the growth of algae. Regular brushing of your pool will prevent dirt from harboring in crevices, which are good hiding places for algae colonies. You can also use pool algaecides or specialty chemicals on top of normal sanitization and filtration processes.
If it’s too late to prevent algae, you can get rid of it by first balancing your pool water’s pH. Secondly, check the filter and pump if they are working correctly. You can also turn off the pool heater if you are using one to lower the water temperature. Make sure there is adequate water circulation until the pool gets clear. Brush the floors and walls daily and vacuum as appropriate. At the end of the day, partnering with a professional pool cleaning company for your Houston pool is a surefire way to ensure thoroughness and effectiveness.
Contact Us for Professional Pool Cleaning in Houston, TX
While green algae may not be as harmful as you might have imagined, it’s still vital to remove it. If you are having a problem trying to get rid of green algae in your Houston pool, turn to the professionals for pool cleaning and other solutions! The specialists at Falcon Pool Services will help you with a full suite of services, including weekly pool cleaning, chemical adjustments, and preventative maintenance in the Houston area. For more information or to request an appointment, contact us today!