Algaecides

Specialty - Specialty chemicals include clarifiers, algaecide, and stain and scale products.
Algaecide - Designed to make algae spores more susceptible to the sanitizing power of a high level of chlorine residual. Algaecides can be mineral, polyquat, or granular ammonia based. Without the presence of an algaecide increasing the effectiveness of the chlorine, the chlorine molecules will just bounce off of the algae spore.

• Typically Algaecides are added to the pool water with the main circulation system running. The pump is to remain operating for the duration of the treatment.

• After approximately 15 - 20 minutes of circulation, the first dose of chlorinated granular shock can be added.

• Continue to circulate the water for 12 hours.

• Add a second dose or chlorinated granular shock to maintain high levels of chlorine residual.

• Continue to circulate the water for 12 hours.

• Add a third and final dose of chlorinated granular shock to maintain high levels of chlorine residual.

• Continue to circulate the water for 12 hours.

• Watch filter pressure. As soon as the PSI climbs 10 - 12 pounds higher than the clean running pressure, Backwash or Clean the filter.

• Test the water to ensure the chlorine levels have dropped before starting the clarifying process.

• Once the chlorine level has dropped to 3 - 4 ppm, add the appropriate amount of clarifier to increase the filtration capability of your filter.

• Run the main circulation system until the water in the pool is clean or the filter climbs 10 - 12 pounds in pressure higher than clean running pressure. In which case backwash or clean the filter to reduce pressure. If the water is still cloudy repeat the clarifier dose.

• Clarifiers can be dosed in most cases every 48 hours.

Unfortunately not every algae treatment is the same and not every pool or pool environment is the same. In the event that the algae in your pool or spa are resistant to minimal chemical treatment, it’s usually time to look at the age of the water and determine if it should be drained and refilled.