How to Remove Algae From Your Pool

Green Algae 

Green pool algae is a common type of algae that can form in swimming pools. You can find green-colored algae growing on the walls, floor, and steps of a pool. 

You can sometimes find green pool algae in the form of a slimy film on the surface of the water. Other times you'll find it floating in the water in large sheets of green slime. While green pool algae is not harmful to humans, it can be unsightly and make a pool difficult to use.

Black Algae 

If you have black algae in your pool, it can be a challenge to remove. This kind of algae roots into a pool wall and can be hard to scrub off. You'll need to make sure you remove all the algae from the root to get rid of it for good. 

Yellow Algae 

Yellow algae often form in large layers over the pool water. This form of algae is resistant to chlorine. It also sticks to different surfaces in the pool making it hard to get rid of. 

Pink Algae

This type of algae looks more streaky and spotty than the other kinds. It grows much more slowly than other algae. Pink algae most often find smooth surfaces to adhere to. 

Vacuum Your Pool 

You'll want to remove as much of the algae build-up as you can. This is one job you'll need to do yourself. 

Start by using a scoop to get rid of any leaves or debris accumulated in your pool. Next, you'll have to manually vacuum the entire pool. Go over any areas with algae more than one time. 

Brush the Pool Floor and Walls 

Algae may remain even after you've vacuumed and scooped your pool. The next step is to scrub the leftover algae from your pool surfaces. 

Scrubbing the sides and floor of your pool gets the chlorine into the algae to break it down and kill it. It also helps to loosen any other debris so it can get filtered out of your pool. 

When scrubbing your pool, choose a stiff pool brush. Start by brushing the walls and then move to the floor. 

Don't forget about the corners or shady areas, as this is where algae like to hide most. Use a pool tile cleaner to get the deepest clean possible. 

You might notice that your water starts getting cloudy the more you scrub. Because of this, make sure to hit the areas with the most algae growth first so you can see what you're doing. 

Water Testing

Now that you've removed most of the algae, it's time to make sure it doesn't come back. Balancing your pool water will get your pool ready for a shock treatment. 

You can buy pool testing strips or use a digital testing kit for this step. Make sure to test for both the alkalinity and pH of your pool. 

Shock Your Pool 

The final step to getting your clean pool water back is the shock your pool. Pool shock adds extra chlorination to the pool water. This helps to kill off any remaining algae growth. 

Shocking a pool with an algae problem isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. You may need more shock depending on the type of algae and the severity of the problem.