Most modern pools are equipped with vacuums, filters, and other equipment once the pool is built. However, these devices are prone to wear and tear as time passes and eventually let go.
Using a pool vacuum is a great way to keep your pool neat. However, they can be quite costly.
Don’t fret too much, even if you don’t have an available pool vacuum right now, since, in this article, we’ll show how to remove algae from your pool without a vacuum cleaner.
What Exactly Is a Pool Vacuum?
The pool vacuum can be described as equipment installed on your pool’s hose to soak up dirt and other particles that could have fallen into or been growing within your pool. The equipment typically consists of the vacuum head, pipe, and telescopic pole.
Automated pool vacuums are typically called creepy crawlies. They automatically glide across the pool. Certain models, however, are manually operated and require manual control of the vacuum’s head within the pool.
Additionally, you can purchase automated smart cordless cleaners for pools to get rid of the algae in your pool. The units are costly and require docking to recharge or be manually cleaned to eliminate algae that have been collected.
Using pool vacuums makes it easy to get rid of green algae from the pool, but they are costly. The owners of smaller pools typically do not want to invest in this equipment as they can clog up the pool and may not be worth the investment for the size of the pool.
Types of Algae in Pools
1. Green Algae
If you observe the algae growing by swimming in the pool, you’ll likely observe the green type. The green algae are most often encountered in swimming pools. They are visible on the walls as well as floating within the pool. The lack of maintenance for your pool is the main source of algae growth. Make sure you keep the pH in check and keep the water flowing and clean.
2. Pink Algae
The phrase “pink algae” is misleading because they aren’t algae. The slimy pink material you see in your pool is bacteria and is found in pools and equipment for labs. Luckily, you can avoid this bacteria the same way as algae by ensuring proper maintenance of your pool and your chemistry levels are balanced.
3. The Yellow Algae Are Also Known as Mustard Algae.
Mustard algae are yellow, with some brown, and very unpleasant. Contrary to green algae, mustard algae thrive in the shade. It may die quickly; do not let this fool you, as they’ll come back with a vengeance until they’re gone for good.
4. Black Algae
Dark black algae can cast shadows on your pool, making it appear grotesque. The primary reason you notice it? Insufficient chlorine. The algae create an aggressive barrier to the protection, so scrubbing your pool wall a bit more often is recommended.
How Can You Stop Algae From Becoming a Problem?
If you aren’t happy dealing with constantly killing algae, It’s time to learn the most effective methods to stop algae growth.
Keeping them from swimming in your pool may be nearly impossible since they will likely flourish when sunlight is not enough or when rain or wind could introduce them.
The first step in preventing algae growth is ensuring proper water flow within your pool. You’ll need to regularly clean your pump and the skimmer.
It is important to shock the pool frequently. This will end algae, cut down the growth rate, and simplify deep cleaning. You can employ one of these methods we’ve mentioned previously.
Always properly clean your pool. It is important to identify the areas where algae can develop in your pool and thoroughly clean them. Wire and nylon brushes are great for getting rid of algae growth.
What Is the Cause of Algae Dying Within Pools Naturally?
Algae in your swimming pool need to be eliminated, regardless of whether you have the option of a pool vacuum or not.
The algae that live in your pool will continue increasing and resurfacing and make the water appear like it is muddy and green. The majority of people kill algae with the help of three basic chemicals:
1. Chlorine
Chlorine tablets or chlorine granules are among the pool’s most popular treatments for algae. They can increase your pool’s pH to an unnatural level, which is incompatible with algae survival. A pH of 7 to 7.6 is recommended to keep your water sparkling and clean.
2. Alkaline
Alkaline products typically contain an amalgamation of bicarbonates, carbonates, dissolved hydroxides, and cyanurates.
The levels of alkaline in your pool could affect your chlorine levels. If acidity is too low, the alkalinity will likely be too low, and the reverse is true. To achieve equilibrium, the alkalinity must be in the range of 80-120 ppm.
Other natural substances can also be used to combat algae. They aren’t as effective but could be helpful for people who have allergies to chlorine or may wish to recycle the water in gardens. Here’s a review of some natural solutions to eliminate algae.
3. Shock Treatment
There are various kinds of shock treatments, including chlorine-based treatments or oxidizers. These types of shock treatments are made to target and eliminate algae plants.
They are typically quite powerful and are employed as a temporary but effective way to clean the algae pool.
4. Household Borax
You can use borax to remove algae accumulated on your pool’s walls. Borax, similar to baking soda, can kill and break up algae.
Dead algae particles will continue floating around and sinking towards your pool’s bottom, no matter what product you choose to kill the algae. They must be removed from the pool and cleared out of the water in your pool, or they’ll start to form, making your pool’s water smell foul and appear dark.
5. Baking Soda
Bicarbonate is an active component in baking soda and is a useful spot treatment for killing and removing algae off walls. This method can be used to get rid of black algae. However, you must clean every particle off, or it will regrow.
How to Get Rid of Algae From a Pool Without Using a Vacuum?
If you don’t have an automatic pool vacuum doesn’t mean you won’t be able to take advantage of clean water for your pool. Here’s a brief overview of the best ways to restore your pool’s water without costly accessories.
1. Utilizing the Hand Method (Filter or Without Filter)
If you have an existing pool filter, wash it thoroughly. Remove the algae from your walls carefully, switch on the filter and let it sit for a couple of hours. That’s it!
You can skip the brushing stage if you don’t have a filter in your pool. Choose either a steel brush for concrete pools or a nylon brush for vinyl. Make sure you brush the algae and debris down to the water’s bottom and then place it in a trash can.
2. Make Use of a Pool Algaecide.
One of the most efficient methods to eliminate your algae issue is to utilize an algaecide. Certain kinds of algaecide are targeted at particular algae, and others have multiple uses.
Depending on your algae’s invasion, you might prefer one specifically targeted.
After pumping your pool to a certain point, you should pour in a substantial quantity of algaecide (about 16 ounces for 10,000 gallons) and keep the filter running for between 12 – 24 hours to get the most effective results.
3. Clean the Pool Filter
The filter in your pool is responsible for removing most of the loose and dead algae accumulated in your pool. However, this filter won’t be able to assist you if it’s completely blocked.
Sand pool filters must be washed to remove them, and all other filter types, such as cartridges for pool filters, should be cleaned before you start cleaning your pool water.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when cleaning your filter to ensure you don’t harm yourself or damage the filter unit.
Once cleaned, the system will automatically eliminate any algae in the filtration system by the pump.
4. Scoop Large Debris Out
Use the swimming net and scoop up the large green waste, such as large pieces made of leaves, algae branches, and other debris floating within your swimming pool. This debris can block the pump that filters your water.
5. Make Sure to Clean Your Pool Floor and the Walls.
This is a crucial aspect that should not be overlooked. The majority of algae species produce the slime layer.
The slime layer protects plants from chemicals in the pool and could affect the effectiveness of the products you use to clean your pool. When you scrub the slime layer of algae, these plants are more vulnerable due to chemical processes.
Take the soft bristle brush and clean the entire wall of your pool and floor. Be aware of areas that have lots of algae growth and dirt.
The surface is scrubbed to get rid of the growth of algae so that these particles will be taken into the pool’s pump.
6. Apply a Shock Treatment
A properly applied chemical treatment for shocks or a multipurpose algaecide such as calcium hypochlorite shock is extremely beneficial in removing hard algae or excessive algae growth.
These multipurpose algaecide solutions can harm your skin if they are in contact. Follow the directions carefully when adding products to your swimming pool.
Wear protective gloves and gloves when handling the treatment. Also, avoid swimming for a few days after applying the shock treatment, as it may result in skin eruptions.
It is also possible to use a clarifier for the pool when it appears green or clear and unclean.
7. Make Sure You Check the Pool Pump.
Pool pumps are fully responsible for the circulation of the water to allow it to flow through the filter. Examine your pool pump to be sure it’s not getting blocked. The pool skimmer or a pool filter could wash your pool’s pump.
Proper circulation of your pool isn’t only essential for getting rid of algae but also to aid in keeping your pool free from other stains and dirt shortly.
8. Test and Restore Your Pool Levels
Your water quality must have a pH chloride range of 7 to 7.6 and an alkaline concentration of between 80 to 120 ppm to eliminate algae and stop it from regrowing within your swimming pool.
Find a test kit for your pool, as well as test your pool’s level to determine the correct dosage of tablets of chlorine or granules that will get your pool water normal.
When your pool’s chemical levels are restored, the algae will begin to die and may even become brown. Dead algae can sink to the bottom of the pool.
How Do You Remove Dead Algae From the Surface of a Swimming Pool?
One very efficient way to remove algae from the bottom of your pool is to utilize an air-tight vacuum system, like the pressure-side vacuum for pools. This vacuum can completely remove all the waste from your pool, making it cleaner.
You may also utilize the vacuum system without having a multiport system. This, however, could damage the filter since this is the way that is required to remove garbage.
Eliminating Dead Algae From a Swimming Pool That Has No Vacuum
If you don’t have a vacuum for your pool, you can build a vacuum (sort). This is the best method to follow if you’re thinking of ways to remove algae from the pool with no vacuum.
Two things are required that are telescopic poles and an attached garden hose. Apart from that, all you require is a container where the waste can go.
Connect the other end of your vacuum hose to a port that can be used for vacuuming and watch the waste go away from your pool.
Can You Swim in a Pool With Dead Algae?
After treatment, algae will die, and dead debris will remain floating in your pool. It’s generally secure to be swimming in water that has algae dead.
Still, many people aren’t keen on it as the smell of these water sources can be unpleasant, and the idea of breathing the slimy green water isn’t a refreshing experience.
The algae can make the floor slippery. Dead algae deposits sink to the bottom of your pool and can be slippery on the pool’s floor. This can make it difficult to stay standing up in your pool. It also could cause a serious fall.
Dead algae particles could attract other kinds of bacteria and insects into your swimming pool. These organisms or insects could be harmful to your overall health.
Although you’re unlikely to become sick by being algae-dead, getting rid of the pool is advisable. Clean water makes your pool more inviting and makes your garden more appealing.
How Do We Get Rid of Algae From a Pool That Is Filtered?
After all, algae are removed from the water, switch on the pool pump to allow the water to run across the filters. The algae will be eliminated from the water while you perform yours.
If the pool is particularly dirty, it may be beneficial to clean or flush the filter system regularly as it could get more congested as time passes.
To improve circulation in your pool or to remove algae from the bottom of your pool, add the garden hose. The clean water will help create circulation, so the algae will be cleaned up.
It is also possible to utilize the pool net or pedals for stirring the water. Put the pedal in the water, and then continue stirring to ensure that dead algae particles can grow upwards and towards the drains of the filter pump.
How Do We Eliminate Algae From a Swimming Pool That Isn’t Filtered?
Removing algae from an unfiltered swimming pool filter will require additional effort, as it requires lots of patience, time, and manual work.
Take the first step to remove and eliminate all algae growth in the pool. Let the water in the pool remain in place so that the dead algae will be absorbed and settle in the lower part of the pool.
Now, you can use a powerful brush to sweep algae so that pieces don’t get scattered gently. Collect the debris as high as you can. Get a dustpan and dive in the water when you’ve got an impressive and large pile. Clean the algae from the pool with a dustpan to dispose of.
Final Thoughts
Everyone hates having an unclean pool, even you. The main issue is that regardless of how hard we attempt to keep our pools clean, algae and other particles will always sneak into our pools, and there’s no way we can do to stop it.
The best way to deal with it is to stop its development and then clean your pool with care when you see signs of growth.
In reality, you don’t have to depend on the services of a vacuum cleaner to maintain your pool. The techniques we’ve described above are effective.
However, you might need to purchase additional tools we’ve listed to make the process easier.
It is possible to use chlorine tablets or shock methods, as well as an algaecide, to name a few. It is even better to test each one and then choose the one that is most effective for you.