Types of Pool Algae

Nearly every pool owner has had to deal with algae problems at one time or another. Even with a properly-working filtration system, sanitizers at their recommended levels, and a watchful eye, algae blooms can still develop. Algae spores can enter a pool in a variety of different ways, but is most commonly introduced into a pool through wind, rain, dirt, and even on a swimmer’s body or bathing suit. Keeping algae spores out of your pool is impossible, so it is important to prevent the microscopic spores from turning into unsightly algae blooms. Maintaining clean, algae-free water will help keep your pool and your family happy and healthy, and Leslie’s is here to help prevent and protect your pool from any algae problems!

Although there are over 20,000 known species of algae, there are only a few types that of algae that can survive and grow inside the sanitized environment of a swimming pool. Below are the kinds of algae that you might run into in your pool:

Green Algae This is the most common type of pool algae. Green algae can show up either as discolored spots on your pool wall, or, more commonly, as large floating masses on the pool surface. While not particularly difficult to get rid of, green algae grows very quickly, so if left untreated, it can multiply to cover large areas of pool walls and surfaces.		Pink Algae Pink algae isn’t really algae at all, but a type of fungus known as Paecilomyces Lilacinus. The fungus forms into small colonies on pool surfaces, and can easily be eliminated through brushing and chlorination
Black (Blue-Green) Algae This is the toughest and most resistant type of algae, and it shows up as small, dark spots on the pool walls. Black algae is extremely difficult to get rid of because it buries its roots deep down in the plaster or tile gout, and will continue to grow back as long as the roots remain intact. Black algae also requires a mix of powerful chemical and vigorous, repeated brushing to eliminate.		Mustard Algae Typically looks like small deposits or sand or dirt, and is usually found in the shady parts of the pool, and on pool steps and equipment like lights or ladders. Mustard algae is resistant to normal chlorine, so it requires a mix of powerful chemicals and vigorous, repeated brushing to eliminate.

Algae Control Leslie’s Algae Control – Made with concentrated, 60% active algae fighter, Leslie’s Algae Control is one of the strongest algae preventers and controllers on the market today. Leslie’s Algae Control both kills existing algae and prevents future outbreaks of blooms, and will not foam up or cause stains in your pool.

Silver Algaecide Leslie’s Silver Algaecide – Leslie’s Silver Algaecide is specially formulated to deal with the tough kinds of algae, mustard and black algae. One dosage should start to kill the algae, and then should be used routinely to keep algae from coming back. Leslie’s Silver Algae should be used instead of shocking your pool.

Copper Algaecide Leslie’s Copper Algaecide – Great for fighting every kind of pool algae, Leslie’s Copper Algaecide works quickly and effectively to kill all algae. Also designed as both an algae killer and preventer, Leslie’s Copper Algaecide should be diluted in a large bucket with water before being poured into the pool.

Black Algae Killer Leslie’s Black Algae Killer – A uniquely blended formula, Leslie’s Black Algae Killer specializes in eliminating both black and mustard algae types. Black algae is the most stubborn and toughest algae to get rid of, but Leslie’s Black Algae Killer destroys it with ease. Use a large 12 ounce dose to initially kill algae, followed by smaller, regular doses to prevent it from coming back.

Green to Clean Green To Clean – Green To Clean is a powerful algae fighter, great for use against floating and wall-clinging green algae, and the best part is that it requires no brushing! In order to make your pool algae-free, Green To Clean works best when your pool’s pH level is at 8.0 or higher. Green To Clean is quick-acting and contains no metal, so it won’t stain your pool.

Yellow Out Yellow Out – Similar to Green to Clean, Yellow Out rids your pool of algae without brushing! Yellow Out is designed to fight every kind of algae, including the tougher kinds like mustard and black algae. It should also be used with a pH level above 8.0 to achieve the best results. Yellow Out, like Green To Clean, is best used as an algaecide rather than a preventer.

3" Chlorine Tabs 3" Chlorine Tabs – The easiest way to maintain your chlorine levels is with Leslie’s 3-inch chlorine tabs, which dissolve slowly and efficiently, meaning you buy fewer tabs and spend less time keeping your pool in pristine condition.Trichlor represents the most effective and efficient method of chlorinating a pool. Trichlor tablets provide constant and reliable chlorination, ease of handling, and an indefinite shelf life.

Ultima Total Control Ultima Total Control – Combining the power of chlorinating compounds with copper for immediate algae-fighting treatment, Ultima Total Control gives you extended relief from your algae problems. Total Control is designed to fight all types of algae, including mustard and black algae, and comes in a granular formula so there is no mixing or dissolving before adding to your pool. Total Control kills and prevents algae, and leaves your pool sparkling clear!

Power Powder Plus Power Powder Plus – During swimming season, Leslie’s recommends applying a shock treatment to your pool weekly. This shock treatment destroys what regular chlorination cannot remove, including 99.9% of disease-causing microorganisms. Leslie’s Power Powder Plus represents a powerful, yet simple and pain-free method of superchlorination that will keep your pool clean and safe. Leslie’s Power Powder Plus is a chlorine-based shock for your pool. The active ingredient is Calcium Hypochlorite, a strong oxidizer and sanitizer