Pool Guide

My pool water is green, what should I do?

Nothing is more frustrating than finding your pool with green, cloudy water just as you are about to enjoy it. This phenomenon is generally due to the proliferation of algae, caused by a chemical imbalance or insufficient filtration. Fortunately, there are effective solutions for restoring crystal-clear water quickly and preventing the problem from recurring. In this guide, you will find out what steps to take to treat green water and prevent it from happening again.

Why does the water turn green?

There are several reasons why your pool water can turn green. Poor management of chemical parameters, insufficient filtration time or weather conditions favourable to algae can cause this problem. Here are the most common causes:

• pH imbalance: A pH that is too high or too low reduces the effectiveness of chemical treatments, especially chlorine. An incorrectly adjusted pH can also encourage the growth of algae.
• Insufficient filtration: Your pool pump must run long enough to ensure good water circulation and prevent impurities from stagnating. Too short a filtration time gives algae free reign.
• Weather: Heat and humidity are aggravating factors. In hot weather, rapid evaporation of the water and the intensity of UV rays reduce the effectiveness of disinfectants.
• Presence of organic matter: Leaves, insects and other plant debris can decompose in the water and feed algae.
• Insufficient chlorine: Inadequate disinfection can promote the growth of algae. If the chlorine level is too low, bacteria and algae proliferate rapidly.

If you notice that the water in your pool is starting to turn green, it is important to act quickly before the situation gets worse.

The steps to clear water

If your pool is overrun with algae and the water is green, follow these steps to treat it effectively:

• 1. Check and adjust the pH: Test the water with a strip or an electronic tester and adjust the pH so that it is ideally between 7.2 and 7.6. This treatment will quickly eliminate the algae and bacteria present in the water.
• 3. Run the filtration 24 hours a day: Activate your filtration continuously for at least 24 to 48 hours to allow the system to effectively filter out dead particles.
• 4. Add an anti-algae treatment: Complete the treatment with a curative anti-algae treatment to reinforce the action of the chlorine and eradicate the algae for good. 5. Clean the pool: Brush the sides and bottom of the pool to remove any algae that has stuck to the surface. Then vacuum to remove residues.
• 6. Use a flocculant: To improve the transparency of the water, add a flocculant that will help to group together fine particles and make it easier for the filter to eliminate them. After these steps, test the water again to check that the pH and chlorine levels are correct before going back into the water.
  

  Preventing green water from reappearing

  Once your pool has cleared up again, it is essential to take certain precautions to prevent the problem from recurring:
  
  • Regularly monitor the pH and chlorine levels: Test the water several times a week to ensure that the parameters remain stable.
  • Ensure sufficient filtration time: Filtration should run for an average of 8 to 12 hours a day in summer. Adjust the time according to the water temperature.
  • Use a preventive anti-algae product: Adding an anti-algae product regularly helps prevent their proliferation.
  • Clean the pool frequently: Remove leaves and debris that could promote algae growth.
  • Cover your pool: A protective tarpaulin limits algae growth by reducing UV exposure and preventing the accumulation of impurities.
  By following this advice, you minimise the risk of your pool turning green and enjoy crystal clear water all season long.
  

  Enjoy a pool that is always clean

  Green water is a common problem but can be avoided with a good maintenance routine. By regularly monitoring the chemical parameters, optimising the filtration and cleaning effectively, you can ensure that your pool is clean and clear. With the right practices, there will be no more unpleasant surprises: your pool will remain crystal clear and pleasant to swim in all year round.