Preventing and eradicating green pool water guide

Green pool water is generally caused by one of two problems - algae (slimy), or copper staining (water discolouration). 

Algae

Whilst not harmful, these microscopic organisms are unsightly.  Periods when you have no sanitiser present (holidays/winter) and rain falling from vegetation (trees) can contribute to algae formation.  The best approach to tackling green pool water from algae, is a pro-active one.  Prevention is easier than killing and filtering dead algae.

Green water pool treatment

Adjust the pH to 7.2 - 7.6 to maximise the efficiency of pool chlorine.

Ensure that pool chlorine levels are between 30-60 mg/l (ppm).

Turn on the circulation system, prior to shock dosing the pool with chlorine shock treatment pool chemicals.  Refer to the instructions on the container for correct dosing.

Apply a dose of pool algaecide.  There are various options when choosing an algaecide.  Algaecides are split into two categories, copper and non copper.  Copper based algaecides are generally more effective and last longer.  Algaecides are then only different in terms of how regularly you have to dose.  A good long life algaecide make life much easier.  If you prefer, special seasonal algaecides are also available, such as winter algaecide. 

Observe the impact of the treatment and if algae persists due to heavy contamination, repeat the above.

Remove dead algae using clarifiers (sometimes called Flocculants or Floculent).  After dealing with serious algae infestation, your water will turn from green to cloudy.  This is because the very fine particles of dead algae are too small to be collected during normal filtration.  Adding a pool clarifier will greatly aid the removal of deal algae.  Remember to backwash the filter to remove the build up of impurities and increase filtration effectiveness.

At first, new pool owners might try to avoid having to purchase algaecide, as the cost of any non essential pool chemical will add to ongoing expenses.  However, to be completely protected from the onset of algae, swimming pool algaecides are must have pool chemicals, and not as expensive as you might think when compared with the hassle and extra cost of shock treatment chemicals when forced to deal with green water.