Green Algae

What is it?

Common “green” algae are microscopic, aquatic plant-like organisms and can be free-floating or wall clinging. Algae grows in salt or fresh water and thrives in temperatures above 85°F. In fact, it can “bloom” overnight. Algae spores constantly enter pool by rain, wind, animals, toys or swimsuits and left unchecked, can clog filters and create surface damage.

To kill green algae:

• Use Algae Complete^®​ as it kills all types of swimming pool algae

5 steps to prevent algae growth:

• Maintain a sanitizer​ residual of 1-3ppm
• Do an initial and weekly application of a preventative algicide (such as Algae Complete^®)
• Shock routinely
• Make sure there is adequate circulation and filtration
• Brushing​ surfaces is vital

Black Algae

What is it?

Black algae are single-celled organisms that grow in large colonies. They contain chlorophyll like other algae, but they also contain compounds that mask the green color. It forms in cracks and crevices on pool surfaces (especially plaster finishes) and can grow somewhat protected from the surrounding environment due to the formation of a protective layer on the outside of the cell. This makes black algae more difficult to treat and it is somewhat resistant to normal chlorine levels.

To kill black algae:

• Use Algae Complete^®​ as it kills all types of swimming pool algae
• Spot Kill^®​ is specifically formulated to kill black algae on walls

IMPORTANT NOTE: Brushing is extremely important when treating black algae because that protective layer has to be broken in order for the sanitizer or algicide to come in contact with the cells.

5 steps to prevent algae growth:

• Maintain a sanitizer​ residual of 1-3ppm
• Do an initial and weekly application of a preventative algicide (such as Algae Complete^®)
• Shock routinely
• Make sure there is adequate circulation and filtration
• Brushing​ surfaces is vital

Yellow (Mustard) Algae

What is it?

Mustard algae is a chlorine-resistant form of green algae that often resembles dirt or sand on bottom or sides of pool. It contains compounds that act as a defense mechanism against the oxidation efforts of sanitizers, helping it survive even in highly chlorinated conditions. This factor can even create a large chlorine demand in certain situations. Mustard algae can be brushed away very easily, but returns quickly.

To kill mustard algae:

• Use Algae Complete^®​ as it kills all types of swimming pool algae

5 steps to prevent algae growth:

• Maintain a sanitizer​ residual of 1-3ppm
• Do an initial and weekly application of a preventative algicide (such as Algae Complete^®)
• Shock routinely
• Make sure there is adequate circulation and filtration
• Brushing​ surfaces is vital