How to Clean a Green Pool: A Step-by-Step Guide
Green Pool Clean-up is one of the most commonly searched terms for pool owners. Depending on how green your pool is and for how long it has been green will determine the treatment you need. Follow this guide to discover how to clean a green pool and bring it back to crystal clear.
*My Pool Shop Melbourne recommends this guide for pools that have recently turned green and have a mild to medium algae problem. This guide may not be suitable for a severely green pool, aka. A swamp! If you have a swamp in your yard that needs treatment, please contact us before starting any treatment to save you from wasting your money on treatments that won’t work.
Step 1: Remove Large Debris and Scrub Away Algae
Begin your green pool clean-up by eliminating visible debris and scrubbing away algae. Remove as many leaves and twigs as possible and give the walls and floor a thorough scrub to dislodge the stubborn algae. Effective removal of debris sets the stage for the next crucial steps in the cleaning process.
Step 2: Check and Balance the pH for Optimal Green Pool Cleaning
Address the root of algae growth by checking and balancing the pH levels of your pool. A pH of 8 or higher is a breeding ground for algae, hindering the effectiveness of chlorine. Bring the pH back to a range of 7.2-7.6 to optimize chlorine’s algae-killing capabilities during your green pool cleaning.
Step 3: Shock the Pool and Boost with Algaecide
Shock the pool with a large dose of chlorine, the amount will depend on the type of chlorine, the size of the pool and how much algae is in the water. Enhance the effectiveness of chlorine by adding an algaecide, to not only assist in the initial killing of the algae, but it will also provide an extra layer of defence against the reoccurrence of algae in the next few weeks/months.
Be aware, that when shocking pools with vinyl liners, excessive amounts of chlorine in the water for long periods can bleach the liner.
Step 4: Pump and Circulate for Effective Green Pool Clean-Up
Run the pool pump for a minimum of 24 hours during the green pool clean-up. It is at this time we also suggest adding a clarifier to assist your filter in removing the dead algae. This extended circulation period ensures the thorough filtration of algae, leaving your pool water visibly clearer.
Note that a cartridge filter may need cleaning during this time or even replacement due to algae build-up, impacting its future effectiveness.
Additional Considerations for Green Pool Cleaning
Ensure a successful green pool clean-up by addressing equipment issues and filtration concerns. Damaged pumps, filters, or chlorinators not only contribute to algae growth but also diminish chlorine effectiveness, compromising water safety. Timely repairs or replacements are crucial to a successful green pool clean-up.
Conquering the challenge of a green pool requires a systematic approach. By following these steps and addressing potential issues, you’ll soon be able to enjoy a crystal-clear swimming experience.
At My Pool Shop Melbourne, we are experts at green pool clean-ups and can do this whole process for you. Most green pool treatments take approx. 1 week and 3 – 4 visits to get your pool from green to clean.
