ALGAE CONTROL
Algae is a form of plant life which can vary in size from a
few thousandths of an inch to the size of a small tree. Of
the many forms of algae, those most frequently found in
swimming pool water are microscopic in size and green in
color.
Algae readily grows in sunlight and can, under favorable
conditions, quickly overgrow a swimming pool turning it
completely green in just a few hours. On the other hand,
swimming pool water can be kept unfavorable to algae
growth by simply maintaining a chlorine level of at least 0.5
ppm in the water at all times. The chlorine level should be
checked at least once a day using a suitable test kit.
If algae condition develops and the pool water “blooms”
green, superchlorination of the pool will be necessary to
clear it. Add unstabilized granular chlorine, or liquid
chlorine. Follow chemical manufacturer’s recommendation
for superchlorination. The algae will quickly become
inactive and can then be removed by the filter. Live algae,
on the other hand, multiplies so fast that the filter cannot
keep up with its growth rate.
When correctly used, commercial algaecides are effective
against algae, though algaecides should be used in
conjunction with, and not as a substitute for, regular
chlorination or superchlorination.
Maintaining a chlorine level of at least 0.5 ppm in the pool
water at all times is the most effective way to prevent algae
growth in swimming pools.
POOL CHEMISTRY GUIDELINES
SUGGESTED POOL CHEMISTRY LEVELS
ACTION REQUIRED TO CORRECT POOL CHEMISTRY
TO RAISE
TO LOWER
pH
TOTAL ALKALINITY
CHLORINE (UNSTABILIZED)
CHLORINE (STABILIZED)
CHLORINE STABILIZER
(Cynauric Acid)
Add Muriatic Acid or Sodium Bisulphate
Add Muriatic Acid
No action — chlorine will naturally dissipate
No action — chlorine will naturally dissipate
Dilution—partially drain & refill with pool water that
has not been treated with Cyanuric Acid
7.2 to 7.6
100 to 130 ppm
0.3 to 1.0 ppm
1.0 to 3.0 ppm
40 to 70 ppm
Add Soda Ash
Add Sodium Bicarbonate
Add Chlorine Chemical
Add Chlorine Chemical
Add Stabilizer
© 1998 Hayward Printed in U.S.A.
