Algae Growth Despite Testing? What You Could Be Missing
Share
Algae is a pool owner’s worst nightmare. Even with regular water testing, you might still see those green, yellow, or black patches creeping into your pool. So, what’s going wrong? Here’s a breakdown of the most common reasons algae can thrive despite consistent testing and what you can do to stop it.
1. Inadequate Chlorine Levels
Algae thrives in low sanitizer conditions. Even if your chlorine levels test within the normal range, they may not be sufficient for heavy pool usage, extreme heat, or recent rain. Regularly use a tool like the Eagle Ray Digital Water Testing Kit to ensure precise chlorine levels, and consider adding a chlorine stabilizer to boost effectiveness.
2. Neglecting Phosphate Levels
Phosphates are algae’s favorite food. While most water testing kits don’t measure phosphate levels, they’re a key factor in algae growth. If algae persists, use a phosphate remover as part of your maintenance routine to deprive algae of its primary nutrient source.
3. Poor Water Circulation
Even with the right chemical levels, stagnant water allows algae to take hold. Check your pool pump, jets, and skimmers to ensure adequate water movement. Dead spots in the pool—like corners or behind ladders—are prime locations for algae growth.
4. Incorrect Shock Treatments
Shocking your pool is critical for eliminating algae, but using the wrong type or amount of shock can reduce its effectiveness. Make sure you’re using the right dosage based on your pool size, and follow up with proper circulation to evenly distribute the chemicals.
5. Testing Frequency and Timing
Testing your water weekly might not be enough during high-use seasons or after storms. Test more frequently, especially when conditions are ripe for algae growth. The Eagle Ray Digital Water Testing Kit makes it easy to stay on top of changing water conditions.
How AquaDoc Can Help
Combat algae with confidence using AquaDoc’s Hot Tub Care Collection. From algae preventers to water testing tools, we provide everything you need to maintain a clean, safe pool year-round.
Take Control of Algae
Algae doesn’t have to be a recurring issue. By addressing overlooked factors like phosphate levels, water circulation, and shock treatments, you can regain control of your pool. With the right tools and a consistent maintenance schedule, you can enjoy algae-free water all season long.
<div class="dynamic-checkout__content" id="dynamic-checkout-cart" data-shopify="dynamic-checkout-cart"> <shopify-accelerated-checkout-cart wallet-configs="[{"name":"shop_pay","wallet_params":{"shopId":26521534554,"merchantName":"AquaDoc"}},{"name":"amazon_pay","wallet_params":{"checkoutLanguage":"en_US","ledgerCurrency":"USD","placement":"Cart","sandbox":false,"merchantId":"A2HNGNTX6KDCDX","productType":"PayAndShip","design":"C0002"}},{"name":"paypal","wallet_params":{"shopId":26521534554,"countryCode":"US","merchantName":"AquaDoc","phoneRequired":false,"companyRequired":false,"shippingType":"shipping","shopifyPaymentsEnabled":true,"hasManagedSellingPlanState":null,"requiresBillingAgreement":false,"merchantId":"BYL4VLZSTTEWG","sdkUrl":"https://www.paypal.com/sdk/js?components=buttons\u0026commit=false\u0026currency=USD\u0026locale=en_US\u0026client-id=AfUEYT7nO4BwZQERn9Vym5TbHAG08ptiKa9gm8OARBYgoqiAJIjllRjeIMI4g294KAH1JdTnkzubt1fr\u0026merchant-id=BYL4VLZSTTEWG\u0026intent=authorize"}}]" access-token="4e4619d038f47707f8ef9220956a11fe" buyer-country="US" buyer-locale="en" buyer-currency="USD" shop-id="26521534554" cart-id="0bb93764d29f0f3311040711920475ac" > <div class="wallet-button-wrapper"> <ul class='wallet-cart-grid wallet-cart-grid--skeleton' role="list" data-shopify-buttoncontainer="true"> <li data-testid='grid-cell' class='wallet-cart-button-container'><div class='wallet-cart-button wallet-cart-button__skeleton' role='button' disabled aria-hidden='true'> </div></li><li data-testid='grid-cell' class='wallet-cart-button-container'><div class='wallet-cart-button wallet-cart-button__skeleton' role='button' disabled aria-hidden='true'> </div></li><li data-testid='grid-cell' class='wallet-cart-button-container'><div class='wallet-cart-button wallet-cart-button__skeleton' role='button' disabled aria-hidden='true'> </div></li> </ul> </div> </shopify-accelerated-checkout-cart> <small id="shopify-buyer-consent" class="hidden" aria-hidden="true"> One or more of the items in your cart is a recurring or deferred purchase. By continuing, I agree to the <span id="shopify-subscription-policy-button">cancellation policy</span> and authorize you to charge my payment method at the prices, frequency and dates listed on this page until my order is fulfilled or I cancel, if permitted. </small> </div>
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.