If you’ve been watching your swimming pool turn green, it's time for a bit of a clean. You don't need to call in the experts, but advice from your local professional, when working with chemicals, is always a good idea. Here’s an 8-step process to get your pool glowing again.
When is the best time of the year to deep clean your pool?
- General maintenance should be kept up year-round
- Cleaning in Spring prepares it for the Summer season
- Cleaning in the Fall is good for checking for general wear and tear. Make sure the pool is covered and stored for winter if you don’t intend to use it
A swimming pool pump may need new parts if it's damaged, clogged, or overworked
1. Test the Water
It’s important to test your pool water to determine the levels of key chemicals. You can purchase a pool testing kit or take a sample to your local pool supply store.
- Chlorine: A pool turns green when there’s algae in the water. You will need to raise the chlorine level
- pH and Alkalinity: Ensure the pH is between 7.0 and 7.6 and alkalinity is between 80-120 ppm
2. Remove the Debris
Start by using a pool skimmer net to remove any large debris. You can apply a fine mesh net to your pole to collect pollen. Thanks to technology, you can now install automatic skimmers in your pool.
3. Brush Pool Walls and Floor
Just like teeth, swimming pools need a good brush! Algae often cling to the sides and bottom of the pool, so you’ll need to brush the entire pool surface. As all pool surfaces are different, ensure it is suitable for the material of your pool walls. Do this before you vacuum the pool.
4. Shock the Pool 😱
Shocking the pool helps balance the water chemistry and prevents algae and bacteria growth. Watch this detailed video for a step-by-step guide on how to shock your pool.
Tip: Consider adding umbrellas over the pool. They prevent direct sunlight from reaching the water which can discourage algae. They provide shade for a much better swimming experience, and they add a touch of elegance, too.
Add a Multi-Canopy Cantilever umbrella to shade your pool and limit algae growth
5. Run the Filter
After shocking the pool, turn your filter on and let it run for at least 8 hours. If removing dead algae, run for longer - 24 hours is good. Make sure you clean or replace filters as needed to keep water circulating.
6. Add Algaecide
If the pool still remains green after shocking, you may need to add an algaecide to target stubborn growth.
7. Vacuum the Pool
Once the algae starts to die, use a pool vacuum to remove the debris from the bottom of the pool. This step an important step to ensure your pool water becomes clear again.
8. Test the Water Again
After cleaning, re-rest the water to ensure there is a good balance of chemicals. Monitor the water daily until it’s clear.
Maintain Regular Pool Care
To prevent the pool from going back to green, maintain a cleaning routine on a regular basis. Clean the pool weekly by:
- Skimming debris off the surface
- Brushing algae off the walls
- Vacuuming the bottom
- Testing the water
Hope this article 'How to Clean a Green Swimming Pool', was helpful. If you need advice about shading over your pool area, contact shade specialists who can walk you through the options.