Woke up to a green, murky pool? Don’t panic—you’re not alone. A green pool is usually caused by algae overgrowth or poor filtration, and while it may look like a nightmare, it’s completely reversible. With the right tools and a bit of work, you can restore your pool to crystal-clear condition.
This guide will show you how to clean a green pool yourself, including algae control steps, green pool treatment, and what to do if your water remains cloudy after cleanup.
A green pool is usually caused by algae, which thrive in warm, untreated water. Contributing factors include:
Algae bloom fast—sometimes overnight—especially during hot, humid days in South Florida.
Before starting the cleanup, gather the following:
Use a skimmer net to remove all visible debris like leaves and bugs. This prevents clogging your filter and helps chlorine work effectively.
Algae cling tightly to surfaces. Use a stiff brush to scrub:
🧼 Brushing breaks the algae’s protective layer, exposing it to sanitizer.
Before shocking, test your water:
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.2–7.4 |
| Alkalinity | 80–120 ppm |
| Chlorine | 0–1 ppm (likely low in a green pool) |
⚠️ Important: If pH is too high (>7.6), chlorine will be less effective. Adjust it before shocking.
Add 3–5 times the normal dose of pool shock (based on manufacturer label). Pour it evenly around the edges at dusk or nighttime to avoid UV degradation.
💡 You may need to repeat shocking for severe algae blooms.
Keep the filter running continuously to circulate the shock and trap dead algae. Clean or backwash your filter every 12–24 hours during this process.
Once the water turns cloudy blue/gray, vacuum the pool to waste if possible (bypassing the filter). This removes dead algae that otherwise recirculate.
If your pool remains cloudy after vacuuming, a clarifier can help bind fine particles so your filter can catch them.
Depending on the severity of the bloom and filter performance, full recovery can take 2 to 5 days. Stick to the process, and don’t skip brushing or vacuuming—those steps are just as critical as chemical treatment.
DIY is possible, but if your water:
…it’s time to reach out to the experts. M&M Pool & Spa Services offers green pool recovery, algae removal, and full system cleaning. Check out our pool cleaning services in Miami-Dade and Broward.
According to the EPA’s guide on pool chemical safety, correct storage and handling of pool chemicals also plays a role in consistent water safety.
Learning how to clean a green pool yourself not only saves you money but also teaches you how to keep your pool in top shape. Consistency, balance, and action are your best weapons against algae.
Need fast results without the hassle? Request a quote from M&M Pool & Spa Services today—we’ll bring your pool back to life.
🔗 Know More: Seasonal Algae Prevention Tips for South Florida Pools