Algaecide in Swimming Pools

Most pool owners know the joy of swimming in crystal-clear water. Unfortunately, that excitement fades when presented with unsightly algae growth. What does one do when facing a swimming pool full of green slime? While prevention is the best way to fight algae growth, there is a way to combat algae once it has infiltrated your pool.

Enter algaecide, a specially formulated chemical designed to kill swimming pool algae and prevent regrowth. Used in combination with pool shock, algaecide can be a powerful ally in the fight for a clean, clear swimming pool.

Understanding Algae in Pools

Algae are microscopic plants that thrive in warm, sunny environments, making pools an ideal habitat. They can enter your pool through wind, rain, or contaminated equipment. Once algae start growing, they can quickly multiply and spread, turning your pool water green, yellow, or even black, depending on the type of algae.

When should you add algaecide to your swimming pool?

The best time to add algaecide to your pool is after you’ve scrubbed, vacuumed, and shocked your swimming pool using a shock treatment that’s at least 70% chlorine. Using algaecide after shock treatments is a good way to kill any tiny algae spores that the pool shock missed — and algaecide can also help prevent it from growing back.

Of course, this isn’t the only time to use algaecide: It’s also smart to add algaecide to your pool water before you close your pool down for the winter and when you open it again in spring or summer. You can also use algaecide to help prevent algae before it grows — some pool owners like to add a dose of algaecide to their pool water on sunny days (remember, algae loves the sun!), and other pool owners treat their water with algaecide once a week as part of their regular maintenance routine.

How much algaecide should you put in your swimming pool?

The amount of algaecide you should use will depend on the size of your pool (in gallons). Not sure how many gallons your pool uses? Use our Pool Volume Calculator to calculate your pool’s volume. For best results, follow the instructions on the algaecide package.

It’s worth noting that, although it’s not dangerous to use too much algaecide, your pool water will foam if you overdo it. The good news is that the foam isn’t harmful and it’ll go away on its own.

Can you swim with algaecide in pool?

Yes, you can — although it’s a good idea to wait 15 to 30 minutes before swimming after you add algaecide to your pool.

Although algaecide isn’t harmful, there’s a chance that it can irritate your skin and eyes if you dive in immediately after you treat your pool. And if you’re using a metallic/copper-based algaecide, the metal content could affect your hair color!

Using pool algaecide is a crucial part of maintaining a clean and healthy swimming environment. By understanding when and how to use it, you can prevent algae growth and keep your pool water sparkling clear. Remember, regular maintenance and proper chemical balance are the keys to a beautiful, algae-free pool.