A cool swim beats the heat—until your pool turns green. Algae’s usually to blame, and shocking or using algaecide often clears it. But what if it stays green? Handybeeman uncovers why and how to fix it.
Why Pools Go Green
A sudden green tint often ties to a chemical imbalance. Here’s what might be behind it:
Algae Boom
Algae thrive when chlorine dips, weather cools, or water sits still. In pools, it’s denser than in ponds, hinting at bacteria—don’t swim ‘til it’s clear.
Metals or Pollen
Rusty ladders or pumps can tint water green when chemicals react. Pollen adds a yellowish haze—cover your pool to block it.
Low Chlorine
Too little chlorine lets algae grow; too much rusts metal parts. A balanced pool shouldn’t smell of chlorine—call a pro if levels won’t settle.
High pH
Pool pH should hover at 7.3-7.6. Above that, chlorine weakens, algae flourish. Lower it with muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate.
Short Filter Runs
Filters need 8+ hours daily to trap algae and debris—more with heavy use. Clean them regularly: DE every 1-3 months, sand every 1-4 weeks, cartridge every 2-6 weeks.
Phosphate Spike
High phosphates feed algae. Balance chlorine to starve them out.
Still Green After Treatment?
Shock and algaecide failing? Here’s why—and what to do:
Weak Shock
Old or under-dosed shock (1 lb per 10,000 gallons) might not cut it. Severe algae may need 4x that. Shock at night—UV rays zap its power—and be patient; it can take rounds.
Bad Circulation
Shock needs flow to hit all spots. A clogged filter stalls it—clean or replace it. Still murky? A pool pro can check the system.
Not Algae
Copper from well water or pollen can green it up, oxidizing with shock. Test water sources and up chlorine for pollen.
Dirty Spots
Green lingers if walls or dead zones hold algae or debris. Brush and vacuum thoroughly to clear them.
What’s Algaecide?
Algaecide kills algae by disrupting their cells. Copper-based or ammonium types work best as prevention, not cures. For metal-heavy water, pick copper-free to avoid greening.
When to Use Algaecide
Add weekly without chlorine, or post-shock with brushing and vacuuming. Pros at Handybeeman nail the dose and balance for you.
Why Handybeeman?
Green pool blues? Handybeeman pros restore clarity fast—pH, metals, or algae, we’ve got it. Contact Handybeeman today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long after shock should my pool clear?
24-48 hours—longer with heavy algae or poor circulation.
Can too much algaecide turn a pool green?
Yes, copper-based ones can if metals are high—use copper-free instead.
How often should I run my pool filter?
8-12 hours daily—more with heavy use.
What’s the cost to fix a green pool?
DIY: $20-$50 for chemicals; pro service: $100-$300.
Clear Your Pool with Handybeeman
Beat the green with Handybeeman’s expert pool care. Contact Handybeeman today!
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