What To Do If My Pool Is Turning Green?

One day you’ve got a sparkling-clean pool and then it’s algae-ridden the next? We know that’s not what you signed up for with your backyard pièce de résistance - not only is it unhealthy for your family and friends to swim in, but it takes away from it being a statement piece that you can be proud of. 

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It’s time to bid your swamp farewell - we’ve compiled a list of key things to look out for to assess the cause of pool discolouration, and to ensure that your pool is kept crystal-clear all year round.

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Pool Algae and Causes of Discolouration 

First things first, if your pool is looking like an unusual shade of green, it’s most probably due to algae build-up. In the circumstance of pool maintenance, algae can grow rapidly and is caused by several factors, including:

• Chemical imbalance: Caused by the pH levels of your pool veering from the recommended 7-7.6 (a high pH can cause rash irritation, and a low pH can cause stinging in the eyes),
• Your pool pump: The size and power of your pump in relation to the cubic metres of your pool can affect its cleanliness, which is why sourcing an appropriate pool cleaner can make all the difference to pool clarity and overall appearance,
• Your chlorination system: Implementing and upkeeping a pool chlorinator will ensure that sanitisation levels are maintained, killing algae-causing bacteria
• Filtration: Regular maintenance checks and replacements of your pool filter will keep it functioning to its full ability, and
• Oxidisation: Although rare, it’s also worth noting that if oxidised copper is exposed to your pool, it can cause discolouration and a green tint.

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How to Turn Your Pool Back to Blue

Now that we’ve addressed the potential causes, the steps to reversing the colour are as follows:

1. Use a dry acid pH decreaser to stabilise the pH level in your pool (a user-friendly alternative to liquid acid),
2. Follow it with super-shock chlorine to kill algae and bacteria, neutralise organic substances, and also reduce the chlorine odour,
3. Loosen up algae and clear your pool filter with a high-potency flocculent, and
4. Eliminate residual algae, and prevent it from recurring with an algaecide.

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In saying this, it’s always best to seek professional guidance first to determine the most effective way to treat your specific pool situation. Here at Complete Pool Service WA, our team will take care of everything for you, providing regular maintenance services with top-of-the-line equipment to help keep your pool looking its best and take the worry out of your hands.

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