chlorine will degrade these compounds to nitrogen gas. Each litre (approx. 2 pints) of
algaecide will usually contain approximately 20% algaecide (i.e. 200 grams [0.3 ounces] of
100% ammonium compounds).
For each unit of 100% ammonium compound, 9 units of chlorine will need to be
produced or added before there is a free chlorine level.
If
1
litre
(approx.
2
pints)
of
algaecide
is
added
to
the
pool,
close
to
2 litres
(approx.
4
pints) of chlorine will need to be produced or added to neutralize the algaecide alone.
Also, any debris in the water will need additional chlorination.
(b) Bather load. With sufficient running times during bather load, the WATERMAID
chlorinator will maintain a clean clear pool for about a 20-bather/hour ratio (e.g. 4
people/5 hrs, 10 people/2 hours etc).
It is important to note that contamination such as sunscreen oils and urine, as well as
from animals will dramatically destroy chlorine.
10. ALGAE
A common problem for any type of pool or spa is algae growth. There are 24,000 known
types of algae, all distinguishable by being single-celled organisms capable of
photosynthesis (they produce their own food), mitosis (all cells can divide) and meiosis
(reproduction is possible by combining with other algal cells).
The ideal environment for algal growth is when there are periods of zero chlorine. Algae
blooms can take less than a day to turn a pool or spa green.
At the first sign of water adversity, the algae population goes into a reproduction phase to
produce SPORES. The size of these spores is less than 0.2 microns. D.E. filters and sand
filters are able to filter 5+ microns and 20+ microns respectively.
Algae will die from doses of chlorine as low as 0.05 ppm concentration, but spores can
resist chlorine levels of up to 10 ppm.
Spores, however, cannot tolerate copper salts as copper attaches to the shell or endospore
preventing germination. Hence, the most effective algaecides contain copper salts. For a
few black algal spots, suspending 50 grams (approx. 2 ounces) of stabilized chlorine in a
weighted nylon bag over the trouble spots may remove them.
For a more serious algae problem in pools, it is advisable to:
1.
Lower
pH
below
7 [generally
by
the
addition
of
up
to
2 litres
(4
pt)
of
pool
acid]
as
this is an essential part of reducing algae resistance.
2. Use a registered copper based algaecide. Follow the use instructions of the copper product
being used.
Note: Do not swim in the pool for at least 24 hours, as the copper treatment may
discolour hair and clothing.
