How Do I Prevent Algae During Long Periods Away?

Shock the pool, balance the chemicals, and use an algaecide like our AquaDoc Pool Algaecide before leaving.

Why Algae Growth is a Concern for Pool Owners

Algae are microscopic organisms that thrive in warm, nutrient-rich water. When left unchecked, algae can rapidly multiply, turning your pool water green, cloudy, or even slimy. Not only does algae make your pool less appealing, but it can also clog up filters, stain surfaces, and create an environment for other harmful bacteria to thrive.

The Impact of Algae on Pool Health

Algae growth can lead to several issues, including:

• Water Clarity: Algae cause the pool water to become cloudy or green, making it unsafe to swim in.

• Filter Clogs: As algae accumulate, they can clog up your pool’s filtration system, making it less effective at cleaning the water.

• Surface Staining: Algae can stain pool surfaces, particularly pool liners, which can lead to costly repairs or replacements.

Types of Algae to Watch Out For

There are different types of algae that can affect your pool:

• Green Algae: The most common type, which is caused by excess nutrients in the water, such as chlorine imbalance or lack of proper filtration.

• Yellow or Mustard Algae: This type grows in shaded areas and can be harder to remove.

• Black Algae: The most stubborn type, it embeds itself in pool surfaces and can be challenging to get rid of.

Preventing Algae Growth While You’re Away

The key to preventing algae growth during long periods of absence is to take a few proactive measures before you leave. A bit of preparation can go a long way in ensuring your pool remains clean, clear, and algae-free until you return.

1. Ensure Proper Pool Chemistry

Proper pool chemistry is the foundation of algae prevention. Before you leave, make sure that your pool’s chemical levels are properly balanced. If your pool is chemically unbalanced, algae can grow quickly, especially during the warmer months.

How to Balance Pool Chemistry Before Leaving:

• Chlorine Levels: Make sure your chlorine levels are within the recommended range (1-3 ppm). Chlorine is the most effective algae fighter.

• pH Levels: Maintain a pH level between 7.4 and 7.6. If the pH is too high or too low, chlorine will be less effective.

• Alkalinity: Ensure alkalinity is between 80-120 ppm to keep the pool’s pH stable.

• Calcium Hardness: Proper calcium levels (200-400 ppm) prevent scaling and ensure your pool’s surface stays intact.

2. Shock the Pool Before Leaving

Shocking your pool before you leave is a great way to prevent algae growth. Pool shock is a concentrated dose of chlorine or other sanitizers that helps clear up any bacteria or organic material in the pool, ensuring that the water remains sanitized while you’re away.

How to Shock Your Pool Effectively:

• Choose the Right Shock: Use a calcium hypochlorite or dichlor shock, depending on your pool’s needs.

• Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Apply the shock according to your pool’s size and the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Run the Pump: Make sure the pool pump is running for at least 8 hours to properly circulate the shock and treat the water.

3. Adjust the Pool Filter and Pump System

While you’re away, your pool’s filtration system needs to be running efficiently to help prevent algae growth. If your filter isn’t running long enough or is clogged, algae may have a chance to grow in your pool.

How to Optimize Your Pool’s Filtration System:

• Set the Pump to Run Longer: If you’re going away for an extended period, set your pool pump to run for 8-12 hours per day to ensure water circulation.

• Clean the Filter: Before leaving, clean or replace the pool filter to ensure it’s working at full capacity.

• Check for Clogs: Inspect all hoses and equipment to make sure there are no blockages that could reduce filtration efficiency.

4. Install an Algaecide

Algaecides are chemicals specifically designed to prevent and kill algae. Adding algaecide to your pool water before you leave will provide an extra layer of protection against algae growth while you're away.

How to Use Algaecide Effectively:

• Choose the Right Algaecide: Pick an algaecide that is effective for your pool type and the specific algae you’re trying to prevent.

• Follow Instructions: Add the recommended amount of algaecide based on your pool size and the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Timing: It’s best to add the algaecide a day or two before you leave so it has time to work before you take off.

5. Cover Your Pool

A pool cover can help keep debris out of the water and block sunlight, which algae need to thrive. Using a pool cover is an easy and effective way to help keep your pool clean while you’re away.

Choosing the Right Pool Cover:

• Solid Covers: These prevent debris from entering the pool and reduce the need for constant cleaning.

• Mesh Covers: Mesh covers allow water to drain through but still block debris.

• Secure the Cover: Make sure the cover is tightly secured to prevent wind or animals from removing it.

6. Ask a Pool Service Professional to Monitor Your Pool

If you’re going to be gone for an extended period, it might be worth hiring a pool service professional to monitor your pool. They can check your pool’s water chemistry, clean the pool, and ensure everything is functioning properly while you're away.

Why Hire a Pool Service Professional:

• Peace of Mind: Professional service ensures that any issues, such as algae growth or equipment malfunctions, are quickly addressed.

• Regular Checks: They can perform routine maintenance tasks like checking your filter, pump, and chemical levels.

• Expertise: Pool professionals have the expertise to keep your pool in excellent condition, preventing problems before they start.

Maintaining Algae-Free Water Upon Return

When you return from your trip, it’s important to check the condition of your pool. Even with all the proper preparations, a pool can still face challenges while you're away. Here are a few steps to take when you return to ensure your pool remains algae-free and ready for use.

1. Test the Water

After returning, it’s a good idea to test your pool’s water again to make sure that the chemical levels are still balanced. Sometimes, even with all the preparation, minor adjustments might be needed.

2. Run the Pump and Filter

Run the pool pump and filter for at least 12 hours to circulate the water and ensure that everything is working properly after the extended break.

3. Perform Regular Cleaning

Vacuum the pool and remove any debris that may have accumulated under the cover. This helps maintain clarity and prevent future algae growth.