Why Pools Turn Green: The Science Behind Algae Blooms
Ever wondered Why Pools Turn Green? Here's the science behind it.
Nothing will destroy your love of the backyard pool quite like seeing the water turn green. Sadly, it is a situation that many homeowners in Ahwatukee, AZ, encounter due to algae blooms. While treating the issue is naturally your priority, it’s important to understand why this happens. Aside from helping you take the right action, it’ll allow you to prevent repeat problems.
At Tukee Pools, our experts are perfectly positioned to clean your pool and reverse the damage. But we also love educating our customers so that they can stay on top of the situation. Here’s all you need to know.
What are Algae Blooms?
Pool algae are microscopic aquatic plants that feed on nutrients found in pool water. While they occur naturally, spores are removed from healthy pools before they grow. An algae bloom happens when algae growth and reproduction becomes uncontrollable.
Signs of algae blooms include but are not limited to;
- Pool water turning green or cloudy,
- Musty smells,
- Slimy pool floors or walls,
- Overreliance on chlorine.
Left untreated, uncontrolled algae growth will take over your pool, making it unusable.
What Causes Algae Blooms?
Algae outbreaks ultimately occur due to the presence of phosphates, which are naturally occurring compounds found in foliage and certain pool chemicals. When your pool carries a high level of phosphates, algae spores can grow and multiply quickly.
So, how do phosphate levels become out of control? This could be due to several reasons, such as;
- Rainwater introduces organic contaminants like leaves or pollen, which contain phosphates and enable algae to grow.
- High levels of sunlight, combined with increased temperatures, create an environment that supports faster breeding for algae.
- Ineffective or faulty pool filtration systems failing to remove algae spores and phosphate contaminants quick enough.
- Insufficient chlorine usage, which also slows the rate of killing algae to create a better environment for phosphates and algae to thrive.
- Pool leaks causing a chemical imbalance as water and chemicals leak out of the pool at unsynchronized rates.
In short then, the science is simple. If the pool contains high levels of food (phosphates), the algae will grow. Conversely, an environment that does not facilitate rapid algae growth will avoid blooms.
How To Manage Algae Blooms
To stay on top of algae spores and prevent the pool from turning green, it’s vital that you implement a thorough management strategy. A professional cleaning service, accompanied by any necessary repairs, will restore crystal clarity to your water.
Preventing future issues will rely heavily on your ability to manage phosphate levels and stop contaminants from ruining the chemical balance. You can do this by;
- Trimming back trees or bushes that are close to your pool,
- Investing in a pool cover (and actually using it),
- Clean your pool filtration systems on a regular basis,
- Use a dedicated phosphate control product as part of your maintenance,
- Regularly test the chemical balance of your pool.
If your pool is already green and you need help reversing the damage, call Tukee Pools of Ahwatukee, AZ to get a free quote now.
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