Three Types of Pool Algae You Should Know About
October 26, 2018by SEOteamFlooring
If you’re like most people you have a basic understanding of algae. It’s green, it’s slimy and it’s definitely not something you want running a muck in your pool.
However—you may not know that there are three types of algae that can turn your beautiful, outdoor relaxation spot into an unpleasant mess.
Black algae
Black algae isn’t so much black as it is a mixture of dark blue-green. If you’ve noticed that dark colored specks (that resemble dirt) have started to appear on the bottom of your pool, this could be a sign that this type of algae is about to take over. If the specks aren’t addressed they will start to grow larger- and once they reach a certain size, the algae will start to reproduce at a very rapid rate.
Black algae will expand quickly over the bottom of your pool and if left unchecked, it will seep into the plaster and concrete base. If the problem becomes significant enough it can actually cause structural damage.
Suffice to say, if you plan on being out of town for an extended period of time, you’ll want to have a pool technician monitor your pool in your absence to make sure this doesn’t happen.
Yellow Algae
Yellow algae grows at a much slower rate than green and black algae, but it tends to be harder to kill off. Yes, you can use a brush to remove the surface layer, but you’ll still need to treat the water with chemicals to make sure what’s left is killed off. Most pool experts agree that super chlorination is the best way to address a yellow algae problem.
Green Algae
Green algae is by far the most common type of algae that pool owners find themselves dealing with. It begins by forming a green slime layer on the surface area of the water. What can’t be skimmed can generally be cleaned with a brush, but that’s no to say you won’t need to treat the water to prevent it from getting worse. Again, if green algae grows unchecked it can take over a pool or spa with rapid speed.
Algae experts
Algae is among the most widespread issues that pool and spa owners deal with and, not surprisingly, it’s a top reason why you may want to consider hiring a professional to help to ensure the problem doesn’t occur.
If you want more information about how Wetworks Pool and Spa can help you clean and monitor your pool next summer, give us a call and we’ll be happy to discuss how we can help you keep your pool and spa looking great.
Our company has more than 20 years of experience in the swimming pool industry.
