How Do I Clean Algae From Pool Steps?

Brush the steps with a stiff brush and shock the pool to remove algae. Prevent regrowth with our AquaDoc Pool Algaecide.

Why Algae Grows on Pool Steps

Algae thrives in warm, sunny, and nutrient-rich environments. Pool steps are a prime target because:

• Water tends to be more still in step areas

• Steps are exposed to direct sunlight

• Circulation may be weaker near the corners and edges

There are three main types of algae you might find:

1. Green algae: Most common and spreads quickly

2. Yellow (mustard) algae: Clings to shaded areas, harder to brush off

3. Black algae: Tough and rooted deep, usually starts on rough surfaces

Green algae is the usual culprit on steps, but yellow algae can show up if your pool has persistent issues.

How to Know It’s Algae

Sometimes, what looks like algae is just dirt or organic debris. Here’s how to tell the difference:

• Algae feels slimy and resists brushing

• It returns quickly after cleaning if not treated chemically

• You might see green cloudiness in the surrounding water

If brushing alone doesn't get rid of it, it's likely algae and needs proper treatment.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Algae from Pool Steps

Cleaning algae from pool steps involves a few tools and some patience. Here’s how to tackle it thoroughly.

Step 1: Test and Balance Your Water

Start by testing your pool water. Unbalanced chemistry often causes or worsens algae growth.

• Chlorine: Should be between 1–3 ppm

• pH: Ideal range is 7.4–7.6

• Alkalinity: Should be between 80–120 ppm

If chlorine is low or pH is too high, correct it before starting the cleaning process. Balanced water makes your treatment more effective.

Step 2: Brush the Steps Thoroughly

Use a stiff-bristle brush or an algae-specific brush to scrub the steps.

• Focus on crevices and edges where algae clings

• Brush with the pump running to help filter the debris

• Repeat brushing daily until algae is gone

Avoid wire brushes if you have vinyl steps, as they can damage the surface.

Step 3: Shock the Pool

Once you’ve loosened the algae, it’s time to kill it. Shocking the pool helps eliminate any remaining spores.

For green algae:

• Use a chlorine shock (calcium hypochlorite)

• Add 1 pound per 10,000 gallons of water

• Run the pump for at least 24 hours

For mustard or yellow algae:

• Use a specialized mustard algae treatment

• Follow label directions carefully, including brushing steps

Keep swimmers out of the pool during and after shocking, usually for at least 24–48 hours depending on chlorine levels.

Step 4: Vacuum and Filter

After shocking, debris and dead algae may settle on the steps and floor. Clean it out properly:

• Vacuum to waste if your system allows

• Backwash the filter if you use sand or DE

• Rinse cartridges for cartridge filters

This step is crucial to prevent the algae from coming back.

Step 5: Use an Algaecide (Optional but Helpful)

After the main treatment, adding an algaecide helps prevent future blooms, especially if your pool is exposed to heat, sun, and debris regularly.

Choose a copper-free algaecide if you’re managing metal levels in your pool. Always follow manufacturer instructions.

How to Prevent Algae on Pool Steps

The best defense is consistency. Here’s how to stop algae before it forms:

1. Maintain Proper Circulation

Poor water flow leads to stagnant zones where algae can thrive. To improve circulation:

• Adjust return jets to push water across steps

• Run the pump for 8–12 hours daily in peak season

• Consider a robotic cleaner that targets steps and corners

2. Keep Water Chemistry in Range

Test your water weekly and especially after heavy pool use or rainfall. Small imbalances can grow into algae issues fast.

3. Brush Weekly

Even if the pool looks clean, brushing helps dislodge microscopic algae and keeps surfaces clean.

• Focus on shaded areas and spots near ladders or rails

• Use the right brush type for your pool material

4. Shock Regularly

Shock your pool every 1–2 weeks in the summer. It kills what your normal chlorine levels miss.

• Shock after pool parties or storms

• Always shock at dusk or evening to prevent sunlight from burning off the chlorine too quickly

5. Cover the Pool When Not in Use

A pool cover reduces debris and limits sunlight, two of the biggest contributors to algae growth.

What If Algae Keeps Coming Back?

Recurring algae on your steps could signal a deeper issue:

• Poor filtration or short pump cycles

• Inadequate chlorine residual

• High phosphates, which feed algae

• Debris buildup in step corners or ladder fixtures

If it becomes a pattern, consider a full water analysis and equipment check. Your pool store or service pro can test for phosphates, inspect for dead spots, and recommend long-term fixes.

Algae doesn’t mean your pool is dirty. It just means the conditions are right for it to grow. With a smart cleaning routine and proactive steps, you can keep your pool steps spotless and safe all season long.