What causes algae to form in my swimming pool?
March 18/2020 There are many ways that algae forms, but we will break it down into the top 4 categories: Water Chemistry Problems, Pool Water Contamination, Equipment Problems, and Other Causes. Here are the top 33 reasons why!
Water Chemistry Problems
1. Low free Chlorine levels, under 1 ppm
2. High Combined Chlorine levels (indicating bacteria in water)
3. High or Low pH levels
4. Alkalinity Imbalance
5. High or Low Cyanuric Acid levels
6. High Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
7. Low grades of chemicals being used (inexpensive brands = not as strong)
8. Inaccurate dosage for size of pool
Pool Water Contamination
9. Remaining algae blooms
10. High levels of Phosphates
11. Lots of debris/leaves in pool
12. Heavy bather load
13. Mulch/grass/yard waste in pool
14. Fertilizers carried in from rains
15. Lots of bacteria present
16. Additional rain water
17. Sap and pollen from nearby trees
Equipment Problems
18. Pump not on sufficient amount of time or is too small
19. Pump impeller clogged
20. Poor circulation
21. Filter cartridge or sand needs replaced
22. Filter cartridge or sand needs replaced
23. Filter on timer
24. Control valve is on recirculate instead of filter
25. Salt cell needs cleaned or is not working properly
26. Salt level too low
27. Auto chlorinator is clogged
28. Floating dispenser not adequate enough
Other Causes
29. High water temps
30. High outdoor ambient temperature
31. All day sun exposure
32. History of reoccurrences of algae each year
33. Family pets (or other unwanted animals) swimming in pool
It’s important to keep all of these factors in line to prevent the outbreak of algae. Follow these simple tips to insure everything is always kept in line, so you are able to enjoy your summer in a crystal clear pool!
Call Aqua Palace Today (712) 329-4180!
Want more information? Contact us. Aqua Palace is family owned and operated, offering above ground and in ground pools, hot tubs, spas and saunas specializing in pool design, installation and repair to local (Omaha and Council Bluffs) and long distance residents (within the US). We are the only Marquis dealer in the Omaha Metro Area with the largest showroom east of the continental divide. Not located in Omaha? No worries, check out our online store for pool and spa chemicals, supplies and accessories.
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