How do you react to green pool water?

When the color of your pool water turns green, it can be disconcerting. This transformation is often caused by the presence of algae, which grows in the water and creates a slippery surface on the walls and bottom, making swimming unattractive. Several factors can contribute to this problem. What can you do to restore clear, swimmable water?

1. Chlorine deficiency

It’s essential to regularly check the chlorine level in your pool, especially during hot spells. In hot weather, the water needs more chlorine to remain disinfected. A lack of chlorine encourages the proliferation of algae, transforming your pool water into an ideal environment for their development.

2. Chemical imbalance

Clear water is the result of a precise balance between hardness, alkalinity and pH. The chemical balance enables chlorine to act more effectively against bacteria and algae. If this balance is disturbed, even a large amount of chlorine will not be effective in keeping the water clear.

3. Insufficient ventilation

Using a solar cover to protect the water from the cold at night is practical, but it can also encourage algae growth if left in place for too long. We recommend removing the cover during the day to allow the water to breathe and oxygenate properly.

What can be done about a green pool?

To effectively treat a green pool, a thorough water analysis is essential. Although home kits can check chlorine, pH, alkalinity and hardness levels, a professional analysis is often more accurate. This service is generally free of charge. He recommends taking a water sample by immersing a rinsed bottle at a depth of around 30 cm. The specialist can then recommend the appropriate treatment. Once the balance has been restored, a shock treatment with a concentrated algaecide can eliminate the algae, and it’s best to wait 24 hours before swimming after applying the algaecide.

Algae prevention

Maintaining the water’s chemical balance is crucial to prevent algae proliferation. We recommend submitting a water sample to a specialist every month, especially at the start of the season, and checking chlorine and pH levels twice a week using a home kit. To prevent the appearance of algae, use a preventive algicide every week. Proactive prevention remains the best strategy for ensuring clear, limpid water.

What to do in the event of prolonged absence?

If you’re going on vacation for a few days, it’s advisable to increase the chlorine dose slightly and remove the solar cover to limit the risk of algae proliferation. If you’re going to be away for more than a week, it’s a good idea to ask someone you trust to regularly monitor water quality and adjust chlorine levels if necessary.

By following these recommendations, you’ll be able to enjoy your pool to the full all summer long, without the worry of green water.