Algae
Problems
Algae
are single-cell plants.
There are over 30,000
varieties and they
exist almost everywhere
on earth. They need
sunlight, carbon dioxide
and warm water to
grow.
Most algae begins
with a slippery slimy
feel on pool or spa
walls before it is
visible. In just a
few hours it can multiply
to the point where
it completely overtakes
the water and causes
cloudiness or haze.
This is called "Algae
Bloom".
There
are 3 main types of
algae that are usually
found in pool and
spa water:
1.
GREEN
ALGAE
- This type of algae
floats in the water
or forms on the sides
of the pool or spa
as Green Dust. The
water can become so
cloudy or turbid that
it is unsafe because
you can't see the
bottom.
2.
YELLOW
ALGAE
- Also called "Mustard
Algae" because
of the mustard color,
appears as yellow
powder deposits usually
on the shady sides
of the walls.
3.
BLACK
ALGAE
- This type of algae
also appears as a
Blue-Green color and
forms very adhesive
dime to quarter size
spots on pool and
spa surfaces.
Algae does not form
in the presence of
adequate levels of
free chlorine. Algae
is an indication of
poor chlorine level
maintenance. However,
once established,
algae may become chlorine
resistance in concentrations
up to 5 PPM Free Chlorine.
The best algae prevention
is prudent maintenance
of free chlorine levels.
Algaecides can also
be used to control
algae but they do
not destroy the organic
waste nor do they
sanitize the pool
after an algae bloom.
However, they can
be used to make up
for sloppy chlorine
maintenance. (See
Problem Solver Topic:
Algaecides)
TREATMENT:
Once algae is established
you must treat the
water with 30 PPM
of Free Chlorine.
This kills the algae
and destroys the organic
waste left behind.
*
Add Sodium Hypochlorite
Liquid Chlorine to
30 PPM
Make sure the pump,
filter and Chlorinator
are working properly.
Run pump continuously
for 24 hours and then
sweep thoroughly.
Do not use the Pool
or Spa until all chemical
levels are back to
normal and the water
is crystal clear.
PREVENTION:
Maintain proper levels
of chlorine. Follow
Basic Routine Maintenance
Schedule.
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