What is Algae? The Three Types of Swimming Pool Algae Green Algae - Green algae are free-floating, can turn a pool green in a matter of hours, and can be found in all types of pools. It's the most common type of algae - it’s also the easiest to prevent or eliminate. Black Algae - Black algae is a blue-green filamentous algae that grows as black, slippery spots on rough surfaces of concrete and plaster pools. It forms a protective coating around itself and if not checked, can grow into a dense black mat. Mustard Algae - Mustard algae appears as orange, yellow or mustard spots on pool walls and floors. It’s a difficult algae to eliminate and can be found in all pool types.   The Causes of Swimming Pool Algae Algae growth is usually caused by one of the following conditions: Inadequate free available chlorine levels - Free available chlorine levels can be depleted quickly by heavy rains, high bather loads or poor maintenance procedures. During such conditions, check free available chlorine levels frequently and add an Aqua Chem chlorine sanitizer as needed, according to label instructions. High pH - Alkaline (high pH) water prevents chlorine from effectively killing algae. Aqua Chem pH Decreaser, used as directed on the label, will lower pH to the correct level of 7.2-7.6. Dirty Pool Surfaces - Dirt and slime accumulation on pool surfaces provides the perfect location for algae problems to start. Weekly brushing and vacuuming eliminate this source of trouble.   Green Algae Treatment & Prevention

1. Check filtration and circulation systems for malfunctions.
2. Check the pH and adjust (if necessary) to 7.2 - 7.6.
3. Following label directions, add Aqua Chem Algaecide ELIMINATOR MAX or ELIMINATOR algaecide. Allow algaecide to work overnight. Then brush and vacuum pool surfaces. Backwash the filter to remove accumulations of dead algae and debris.
4. For major infestations, a second treatment may be needed.
5. Return to normal maintenance with Aqua Chem chlorinating products, shocks and balancers.
6. As an algae preventative, add Aqua Chem Algaecide ELIMINATOR MAX or ELIMINATOR per label directions as listed for preventative maintenance.

  Black or Mustard Algae Treatment

1. Check the pH and adjust (if necessary) to 7.2 - 7.6.
2. Vigorously brush away any visible algae.
3. Vacuum pool surfaces and backwash to remove as much debris as possible.
4. Following the label directions, add Aqua Chem Shock PLUS®.
5. Following label directions, add Aqua Chem Algaecide ELIMINATOR MAX Algaecide (for all pool types). Allow algaecide to work overnight. Then brush and vacuum pool surfaces. Backwash the filter to remove accumulations of dead algae and debris.
6. For major infestations, a second treatment may be needed.
7. Return to normal maintenance with Aqua Chem chlorinating products, shocks and balancers.
8. To prevent black algae, add Aqua Chem Algae ELIMINATOR MAX or ELIMINATOR Algaecide per label directions as listed for preventative maintenance.