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How to Clean Algae from Pool: A Complete Guide for Sparkling Clean Water

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If you’re looking for the most effective method on how to clean algae from pool, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re battling green slime, yellow dust, or stubborn black algae, cleaning your pool correctly not only restores crystal-clear water but also protects the health of your swimmers and the longevity of your pool equipment.

In this article brought to you by MM Pool & Spa Services, we’ll walk you through proven techniques including brushing algae, proper algaecide use, and the best vacuum technique (high/med/low) based on algae severity—specially tailored for homeowners across Miami-Dade and South Florida.

Understanding Pool Algae: Types and Causes

Before diving into cleaning strategies, it helps to understand what you’re up against. Algae are microscopic plants that thrive in warm, stagnant, or improperly sanitized pool water. The most common types include:

  • Green Algae: Floating and fast-growing, it clouds the water rapidly.
  • Mustard/Yellow Algae: Powdery and clings to walls, often confused with sand or pollen.
  • Black Algae: The most stubborn type, forming dark spots on pool surfaces. It can burrow into plaster and is highly chlorine-resistant.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Algae from Pool

1. Test and Balance Your Pool Water

Before treating the algae, it’s essential to balance your water chemistry. Test pH, chlorine levels, and alkalinity. Ideal pH should be between 7.2–7.6 to maximize sanitizer effectiveness. If necessary, adjust your levels accordingly using pool chemicals.

2. Brushing Algae From Pool Surfaces

Use a stiff-bristle pool brush designed for your surface type and manually scrub the walls, floors, and steps. Pay extra attention to hidden areas like behind ladders and return inlets where algae love to hide. Brushing algae breaks up biofilm layers and exposes them to chemicals.

3. Shock the Pool

For green and mustard algae, add chlorine shock (calcium hypochlorite) at 2–3 times the normal dose. For black algae, you may need up to 4 times the dose. Run your pump continuously for 24 hours after shocking. During this time, avoid swimming in the pool.

4. Use the Right Algaecide

Once chlorine shock has reduced the visible algae, apply an algaecide suited to the algae type. For example:

  • Green algae: Use quaternary ammonium or polyquaternary algaecides.
  • Mustard algae: Use copper-based algaecides.
  • Black algae: Look for concentrated metal-based formulas specifically labeled for black algae.

Algaecide use should be done with the pump running to distribute it evenly. Always follow manufacturer instructions for dosage.

5. Use the Proper Vacuum Technique (High/Med/Low)

After dead algae settles at the bottom, vacuuming becomes essential. Choose the right vacuum technique based on the algae problem:

  • High setting: For large debris after shocking and heavy algae removal.
  • Medium setting: For general cleanup post-algaecide application.
  • Low setting: For fine algae particles and to avoid water clouding.

If possible, vacuum to waste to prevent algae spores from cycling back into the pool.

6. Backwash and Clean Filters

Algae clogs pool filters quickly, so whether you have a sand, cartridge, or DE filter, it’s essential to clean or backwash it thoroughly after each treatment round.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

  • Test and balance water weekly.
  • Run pump daily—at least 8–12 hours during warmer months.
  • Shock pool after heavy use or rains.
  • Schedule monthly professional servicing for early detection of issues.

Best Practices for Pool Algae Removal in Miami-Dade and South Florida

South Florida’s humid, sunny conditions make it an algae paradise, so pools in the Miami-Dade area require extra care. MM Pool & Spa Services offers tailored algae removal services to tackle the challenges of subtropical weather, including:

  • Weekly maintenance to deter algae-friendly conditions.
  • UV-resistant algaecide options to combat strong sunlight degradation.
  • Customized vacuum techniques (high/med/low) depending on algae load and pool type.
  • Eco-friendly and family-safe products suitable for year-round swimming season.

In places like Coral Gables, Cutler Bay, Homestead, and Miami Beach, algae can become a recurring problem if not addressed professionally. Our team uses industry-leading tools and techniques to make sure your pool stays algae-free, no matter the season.

Why Choose MM Pool & Spa Services Corp for Algae-Free Pools?

At MM Pool & Spa Services Corp, we go beyond typical maintenance. Our certified technicians use professional-grade algaecides, top-tier cleaning equipment, and comprehensive care to ensure your backyard oasis stays safe, clean, and algae-free. We proudly serve all of Miami-Dade and surrounding South Florida cities.

Ready for an Algae-Free Pool? Let’s Get Started!

Stop wasting time and money on ineffective solutions. Contact us today for a customized algae treatment plan and let MM Pool & Spa Services bring your pool back to life.