What is algaecide and how does it work?
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An algaecide is a chemical product designed to prevent or kill algae in your pool. It works by disrupting the cellular processes of algae, leading to their death. Some contain ingredients that directly destroy the algae, while others simply make the algae more susceptible to other treatments, such as chlorine.
Why should I use an algaecide?
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Although chlorine can treat algae, the most common types of algae are chlorine-resistant; therefore, using an algaecide can help treat and prevent these algae. Algaecides are also great when they’re used as a preventative measure; using them weekly will help keep most algae at bay.
When should I use an algaecide?
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Algaecide works excellently as a preventative treatment to prevent algae from blooming in your pool. It’s also recommended to use an algaecide after each shock treatment, as chlorine can lessen the effects of algaecides. It’s most effective in warm weather; however, you may want to consider an algaecide when you close your pool for the season to prevent algae blooms over the winter.
How do I use an algaecide?
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Start by checking that your pool’s pH is balanced correctly, and adjust it as necessary. Next, superchlorinate (or shock) your water, and let it sit until your chlorine levels return to normal. Then add the algaecide according to the package's instructions. The algaecide will work to prevent algae from creating new cells.
It will need to sit overnight, with the pump running, and then you need to vacuum the dead algae the next day. It’s recommended that you clean your filter afterward to remove any remaining dead algae.
Is it safe to swim after adding algaecide?
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It is safe to swim in your pool an hour after adding algaecide; however, this may limit its effectiveness. For best results, allow the algaecide to take effect for several hours before swimming in your pool.
What type of algaecide should I pick?
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The type of algaecide you choose depends on what you want the algaecide to do and your specific situation.
You’ll want to consider several factors, including the color of the algae, the amount of algaecide already present, and the chemical balance of your water. Some algaecides are designed to be more effective on a specific type of algae, while others are effective on all types of algae.
Additionally, you’ll need to consider the presence of metals in your pool. Some algaecides are formulated with copper, which can hurt other aspects of your pool. If you’ve had issues with metals and minerals in your pool before, you’ll want to avoid this type of algaecide.
Quat Algaecides:
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (or Quats) are algaecides that act like a detergent. They weaken the outer membranes of cells, making them more vulnerable to other sanitizers, such as chlorine. They’re best for green algae and routine, preventative maintenance, but are less effective against heavy algae blooms.
Polyquat Algaecides:
Polymeric Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (or Polyquats) are algaecides that are both non-metallic and non-foaming. They attach to algae cells and effectively suffocate them. They’re best for the prevention and treatment of all types of algae, including green, mustard, and black algae. However, they can be more expensive than other types, but are also non-staining and longer-lasting.
Copper Algaecides:
Copper-based algaecides work by binding to the algae, inhibiting photosynthesis, which is essential for the algae to produce energy. They’re effective against many algae species and can provide long-term algae control; however, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and local regulations, as excessive copper levels can be toxic.
Is algaecide safe for all pool surfaces?
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No, not all algaecides are safe for all pool surfaces. Copper-based products can stain surfaces, such as white plaster. To ensure safety, it’s best to use a copper-free algaecide, a chelated copper algaecide, or one that is specifically labelled as being safe for all pool finishes.
Can algaecide cause foaming in my pool?
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Algaecides can cause foaming in a pool, mainly if they contain metals like copper or if the recommended dose is exceeded. It can also be exacerbated by your pool not being properly balanced and by the presence of organic contaminants.
You can manually skim the foam off the surface of your pool, but in many cases, the foam will break down on its own over time as the algaecide is used up.
How long should I run the pump/filter after adding algaecide?
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You should run your pump for at least 30 minutes to a few hours after adding algaecide to help it circulate evenly throughout the system. After this, run your pool continuously for 24 hours to allow your filter to clear out all the dead algae. It is then suggested that you clean your filter to prevent that dead algae from returning to your pool.