The most common pool water problem is algae because it is the most common. There are over 15,000 algae species but only a few present themselves in swimming pools. Algae is always entering the pool but it is when the sanitizer level gets too low when algae takes hold and grows. Lack of proper circulation, filtration and sanitization also contribute. In as little as a few hours on a sunny day that algae can turn into a problem.

Types of algae are often named and referred to by color:

Green Algae: Most common and easy to treat. It is frequently found floating in pools but can cling to the pool walls. They also show up as “sheets”, where large wall sections, or even the entire pool, is coated in green slime.

Mustard Algae: Also referred to as yellow algae. Difficult to get rid of and is know to keep coming back, probably because it was never really gone in the first place. Usually found in the shady parts of the pool. it does respond to treatment but it must be aggressive.

Black Algae: Very difficult to get rid of this pool algae due to the strong roots and protective layers over the top of the black algae plant.

Pink Algae: Technically not an algae but a fungus or bacteria that causes slimy colored colonies called Paecilomyces Lilacinus.