Your beautiful, usually clear pool has suddenly turned green? You’re probably wondering why and, more importantly, how to effectively solve this issue. Don’t worry, you’re not alone in facing this challenge, and there are reliable solutions to quickly restore clear and inviting water. Here are our practical step-by-step tips suitable for everyone.

What Are The Reasons For Green Pool Water?

This unpleasant green color usually arises from the rapid growth of algae, which thrive under certain conditions, such as poor chemical balance, high temperatures, or stagnant water.

Here are common reasons that explain this proliferation:

  • Insufficient disinfectant dosage (low levels of chlorine or bromine promote algae growth).
  • pH imbalance (a pH above 7.5 significantly reduces the effectiveness of disinfectants, facilitating rapid algae growth).
  • Poorly maintained filtration (a clogged or damaged filter allows organic particles and algae to proliferate).
  • High temperatures and direct sunlight (algae thrive in warmth and sunlight).
  • Presence of organic debris (leaves, twigs, and other residues nourish algae).
  • Stagnant or poorly circulated water (favorable for algae development).

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To make your pool clear again, carefully follow the steps below.

Clear Steps To Treat A Green Pool

Step 1: Test Your Pool Water

The first thing to do is check the parameters of your water to identify any imbalances. Use test strips or an electronic tester. Here are the levels to check:

  • TAC (Alkalinity): ideally between 80 and 120 ppm. Adjust if needed by adding a correction product to a specific area of the pool, then immediately run the filtration for 24 hours.
  • Water pH: should be maintained between 7 and 7.4. Adjust it in increments of 0.2 using products like pH Minus or pH Plus that have been diluted beforehand.
  • Water hardness (TH): should be between 100 and 200 ppm. If above 300 ppm, use a calcium sequestrant to protect your equipment.

Step 2: Conduct An Effective Shock Treatment

For quick results, a shock treatment is ideal. The product used (shock chlorine or shock bromine) will depend on your usual method.

  • Dilute the product in a large container before applying.
  • Distribute it evenly over the entire surface.
  • Run the filtration continuously for 48 to 72 hours.
  • Regularly clean the filter to prevent clogging.

Step 3: Clean Your Pool Thoroughly

Even if the water starts to improve, a thorough cleaning of the pool will completely eliminate the algae and prevent their quick return.

Use an appropriate brush for your pool’s surface to remove algae attached to the walls and floor. Also, remember to empty and clean the skimmer basket and the filter (perform washing and rinsing if it’s a sand filter).

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Step 4: Use An Anti-Algae Product

Once your pool is clean, ensure the water is protected long-term using a specific algicide:

  • Dilute the algicide in water and evenly distribute it in front of the return jets.
  • Keep the filtration running for 24 to 48 hours.

Step 5: Clarify Your Water With A Flocculant

The flocculant helps to group remaining particles so they can be easily trapped by the filtration:

  • Use a flocculant suitable for your filtration (be cautious, as some products may damage cartridge systems).
  • Run the filtration for 24 hours after adding the product.
  • Finish by thoroughly cleaning the filter.

After these steps, you’ll rediscover your pool as you love it: clear and ready for swimming.

How To Prevent Water From Turning Green Again?

Here are some simple tips to incorporate into your maintenance routine:

  • Regular water level analysis (avoid imbalances in chlorine, pH, and TAC).
  • Regular filter maintenance to ensure optimal filtration.
  • Use a protective cover (limits organic debris and reduces direct sunlight exposure).
  • Preventive use of an algicide as per the manufacturer’s recommended dosage in your daily water treatment.

These simple precautions will save you many inconveniences throughout the swimming season.

We value your opinion! Have you ever experienced a similar situation with your pool? What solutions have you tried? Share your tips and experiences in the comments; we’d love to hear from you!