If you’re dealing with pink algae in your pool, the first thing to understand is that it’s not actually algae but rather a type of bacteria that is naturally occurring and can be found in any body of water. This substance is often referred to as pink slime, and its pink or reddish color comes from pigments within its cells. Pink algae usually grow in areas of the pool that don’t receive direct sunlight and have minimal water movement, and they are often found on PVC materials commonly used in pool construction.
Why Does Pink Algae Happen?
Pink algae in your pool are a sign of poor water maintenance, inadequate water circulation, and insufficient sunlight exposure. Rainwater that enters the pool can also contribute to its growth. Despite regular pool maintenance and chemical treatment, pink algae can still develop in your pool since it is highly resistant to chlorine and bromine. Even after treatment, the chance of re-contamination is high since pink algae can remain on items like pool toys, skimmer baskets, fountains, and garden hoses.
Is Pink Algae Dangerous?
While pink algae in your pool are unsightly and can cause slippery pool fixtures, they do not pose any actual danger to human health since they are not a pathogen. It is still not advisable to swallow pool water with or without pink algae since under no circumstances is swallowing pool water considered safe! Getting rid of pink algae is crucial to maintaining the overall safety of your pool since pink algae does destroy the life length of your pool plaster, pool equipment, and more.
How Can I Keep Pink Algae From Growing In My Swimming Pool?
Prevention is the best method for dealing with pink algae, and maintaining your pool’s chemical balance is your most potent weapon against its growth. Regular brushing, vacuuming, and using a pool cover during rainfall can decrease the chance of a pink algae infestation. Sunlight and UV rays are natural oxidizers that help prevent pink algae growth, so it’s essential to remove the cover during sunny days, even if you’re not using the pool. Regular pool shocking and cleaning may also prevent pink algae from forming.
How Do I Get Rid Of Already Existing Pink Algae?
To start, it is recommended to remove any pink algae are already present and visible in your pool, you can physically clean your pool and surrounding areas and items that may be damp and dark with your at home pool cleaning equipment.
After cleaning your pool, you can use this list of products chemicals that can help with removing Pink Algae permanently:
- Algaecides: Algaecides are chemical solutions specifically formulated to kill algae in your pool. There are several types of algaecides on the market, but look for ones that are labeled as being effective against pink algae.
- Pool shock: Pool shock is a high concentration of chlorine that is added to your pool to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. It can also be effective against pink algae, although it may take several treatments to completely eradicate it.
- Enzyme-based cleaners: Enzyme-based cleaners use natural enzymes to break down organic matter in your pool, which can help prevent pink algae from forming. They can also be effective at removing existing pink algae.
After using any of the above products, filter your pool continuously for 24 hours – after a thorough pool shock, running your filter for a full 24 hours will ensure halogen or peroxide levels are maintained at a higher than usual level, helping to kill any remains of pink algae.
When selecting a product to remove pink algae from your pool, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take any necessary safety precautions. If you are unsure which product to use or how to safely and effectively remove pink algae, consider consulting Sublime Pools & Spa as your professional local pool cleaning company!
Contact The Pink Algae Removal Experts At Sublime Pools & Spa!
Getting rid of pink algae from your pool can be a lengthy process, and it’s best to seek professional help. Sublime Pools & Spa offers personalized and customized pool cleaning services, and their certified pool technicians can help you remove pink algae from your pool and recommend ways to prevent its return.
