POOL ZONE
Understanding
By Nikki van Coller
As swimming season approaches , you may be dreading looking under your pool cover , knowing you are going to find a green mess . Or perhaps you kept treating your pool through winter and it just needs a once-over to get it into tip top shape . Either way , it helps to understand the different types of algae found in swimming pools and how best to treat them .
What is pool algae ?
Pool algae is a microscopic aquatic plant that feeds on nutrients found in pool water . It is a natural part of our ecosystem , but can be unattractive to look at , and pose risks if it gets out of control .
The three types of algae you are likely to encounter are green , yellow / mustard and black . Green is the most common , the least harmful and the easiest to eradicate , if caught early . If not , it can multiply quickly , especially if your pool water is warm .
Yellow pool algae is more common in hot , humid areas and is found in the dark corners and under the stairs of your pool . Because it contains beta-carotene , an antioxidant , it can be more resistant to chlorine , making it more difficult to eliminate .
Black pool algae is actually a bacteria called cyanobacteria , which forms clusters of black spots on the pool wall and floor . Cyanobacteria is harder to treat because it has a coating and can extend its roots into crevices and cracks .
How does algae get into the water ?
Algae spores are not visible to the naked eye when they enter your pool .
98 MARKtoe ! September 2023