A green pool is every pool owner's nightmare, but it's a common problem in Fresno, especially after vacations or during the hottest summer months. Here's how to bring your pool back to life.
Assess the Severity
Green pools range from light green (early algae growth) to dark green or black (severe infestation). Light green pools can often be recovered in 24-48 hours, while severe cases may take a week or more. If you can't see the bottom of the pool, you're dealing with a severe case.
Step 1: Clean and Inspect
Remove all large debris with a leaf net. Check your pump, filter, and other equipment to make sure everything is functioning. You'll need your filtration system running continuously during recovery.
Step 2: Brush Everything
Brush all pool surfaces thoroughly—walls, floor, steps, and behind ladders. This breaks up algae colonies and exposes them to chemical treatment. Don't skip this step; it's crucial for effective treatment.
Step 3: Shock Treatment
For light green pools, use 2-3 times the normal shock dose. For dark green pools, you may need 4-5 times the normal dose. Use calcium hypochlorite shock for best results. Add shock in the evening when the sun won't immediately break down the chlorine.
Step 4: Run the Filter Continuously
Run your filter 24/7 until the water clears. Clean or backwash the filter every 8-12 hours during recovery, as it will clog quickly with dead algae. You may need to clean the filter multiple times.
Step 5: Test and Adjust
As the water clears, test and adjust your chemistry. Bring pH to 7.2, maintain high chlorine levels until the water is completely clear, and add algaecide as a follow-up treatment.
When to Call a Professional
If your pool doesn't show improvement within 48 hours of treatment, or if you're dealing with a severe case, call SK Pool Cleaning. We have the equipment and expertise to recover even the worst green pools quickly and safely.