Yes, green pool water can make you sick with infections, gastrointestinal illness, and respiratory problems. The algae indicates dangerous bacteria and parasites are present, making swimming unsafe until properly treated.
Pool covers are highly effective at preventing algae by blocking sunlight and reducing debris, but they don't eliminate the need for proper chemical balance and filtration.
Pool algae forms when microscopic spores enter your water and find ideal conditions: sunlight, nutrients (like phosphates), warm temperatures, and unbalanced water chemistry with insufficient chlorine levels.
You can close a green pool, but it's not recommended as algae will worsen over winter. Either treat the algae with SLAM method before closing, or use extra winterizing chemicals and accept potential spring cleanup issues.
Pool algaecides should not be used in ponds as they contain chemicals toxic to fish, plants, and beneficial bacteria. Use pond-specific treatments or natural methods instead.
Pool algaecides work by disrupting algae cell walls and metabolic processes to kill and prevent algae growth. However, proper chlorine levels are more effective for treating existing algae problems than algaecides alone.
To clear green pool water, first diagnose the algae type and severity, then use the SLAM method by maintaining shock-level chlorine based on your CYA levels until the water clears completely.
To turn your green pool blue, first test and balance water chemistry, then use the SLAM method with liquid chlorine to shock at levels 3-5x your CYA until water clears completely.
Yes, you should run your pool filter every day for 8-12 hours minimum. Daily filtration is essential for proper water circulation, chemical distribution, and removing contaminants that accumulate continuously.
Pool alkalinity typically rises due to fresh fill water with high alkalinity, adding pH increasers or certain sanitizers, excessive aeration from water features, and natural processes like algae growth.
Yes, pool algae can grow without direct sunlight by using artificial lighting or stored energy. Indoor pools and covered pools can still develop algae problems when water chemistry is imbalanced.
