Why pool water is green

Like algae, pollen will first become visible on bottom of the pool. For this reason it is often mistaken for green or yellow algae.

Unlike algae however, pollen does not stick to the pool surface. If you wave your hand a couple of inches over the affected area without touching it , pollen will puff up like a cloud where algae will not move.

Pool water turned green by metals will be a consistent light green colour; looking almost as though the pool has had green food colouring added to it.

Despite the colour, the water will still look fairly clear and you should be able to see the bottom of the pool. Metals can also stains to appear on the surface of the pool. Bringing along some photos of the problem can also be very helpful.

When going over the results of your water test, pay close attention to chlorine and copper levels in the water. If there is no chlorine present in the water, and the water is a dark green, then the most likely cause is algae. Since algae usually cannot survive in water that has a chlorine level of ppm parts per million , if your test shows that there is a chlorine residual in the water of at least 1ppm, algae is most likely not the problem.

If the water has a good chlorine residual and there is no sign of metals, pollen is the most likely cause of your green pool water. Algae should be treated by adding chlorine shock and algaecide to the pool water. Why not just shock? Algae protect themselves with a slimy coating that can greatly reduce the effects of chlorine. Along with adding chemicals, you should also brush the entire surface of the pool. This helps to break up the algae blooms into smaller pieces that can be more easily killed by the chemicals.

As the algae is killed, the pool water will usually go from green to cloudy before eventually going clear. This process can take a number of days.

During this time, the pool pump should be left running 24 hours a day to allow for an even distribution of chlorine to the water, and allow the filter to remove the dead algae that is causing the cloudiness. Until the water is completely clear you should also check your chlorine level at least once a day, adding additional chlorine every time the level dips below 1ppm.

Most clarifiers are also relatively ineffective on pollen. Skimmer socks placed over the skimmer basket will help to remove any pollen that is suspended in the water, but need to be frequently changed, and will never completely clear up the issue.

In our experience, adding a flocculant is the most effective treatment for removing pollen. For more information on how to treat a pollen problem, talk to one of our water care specialists. To treat a metal issue in your pool requires the use of a sequestrant. After the sequestrants have done their job and the pool is clear again, you now need to remove the trapped metals from your filter.

A high pH means your water is alkaline and cloudy, especially after the shock. In this case, add hydrochloric acid to the water to neutralize the basic water elements. Ideally, the pH levels should be low. Even with salt water pools, testing its chemical balance is just as important. Why is my pool still green, you are wondering?

So first, ensure the pool has a pH of 7, then shock the pool with chemicals. Take your liquid chlorine and disburse it around the pool evenly, and then turn on the filter. Let the entire liquid chlorine circulate in the pool for several hours before you brush the pool. Be thorough when brushing. You can also use a suitable quality algaecide to clean the pool.

Always consult with a professional before handling and adding any amount of chemicals. Why is my pool still green after adding chlorine? Check your filter for clogs from the haze-jade green water. Why Is My Pool Green? The last thing you want to see as you head toward the pool for a refreshing dip is green pool water. Is your pool water green? You'll want to call a pro. Get free, no-commitment estimates from pool cleaners near you.

Find a Pro. Find the root of the problem. A pro can help keep you pool water clean and clear. Keep your pool in top-top shape. Keep your hands clean with a top local pro.

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