Black Algae

Step 1 - Test your pool and adjust water chemistry to optimum level. 

Step 2 - Inspect pumps and survey circulation patterns. The presence of black aglae indicates poor circulation. Adjust circulatory patterns so all water in the pool circulates evenly. 

Step 3 - Sanitize your filter.

Step 4 - Sanitize a stiff-bristled brush. Use stainless steel if possible.

Step 5 - Vigorously brush all the black spots on your pool 3 or 4 times a day for as many days as it takes to get rid of the algae. 

Black algae have protective caps that prevent algaecide from getting into them. They can only be removed by scrubbing. Black algae also have roots and work their way deep into the surface they cling to. Frequent scrubbing is necessary to allow the chemical to reach into the roots of the algae.

Be extra diligent about cleaning carefully around corners, ladders, and other fixtures.

Scoop and vacuum out any debris. Any debris left in the pool can cause algae to regrow.

Sanitize the net, vacuum, brush, and any other tools after each use. 

Step 6 - Put on personal protective equipment such as gloves and eyewear before handling any chemicals. Familiarize yourself with the Safety Data Sheets.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions provided on each chemical and abide by their recommendations regarding use and restrictions.

Anyone handling chemicals should be WHMIS certified and follow safe handling and storage procedures.

Step 7 - While wearing protective equipment, scrub half a chlorine tablet over every black algae spot.

Step 8 - Shock your pool according to the manufacturer’s instructions for treatment of black algae. Choose a slow reacting pool shocking product. Some manufacturers recommend a dose 3 times as high as the normal dose when treating for black algae. Consult your local professional pool supply expert for specifics.

Step 9 - Allow the pool to stabilize. Re-test the pool.

Step 10 - Apply a copper-based algaecide when conditions are right. 

Copper-based algaecides are the only algaecides effective against black and yellow mold and have a longer lasting effect than other algaecides. Because they can cause staining if not applied properly, they can only be used under the following conditions:

      i. when alkalinity is between 50 ppm and 160 ppm

      ii. pH is below 7.6

      iii. copper levels will remain below 1 ppm after the

           algaecide is added

      iv. temperatures are above 15°C (60°F)

      v. no biguanide-based sanitizing system is present.

The algaecide must come into contact with the algae in order to be effective.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding use and restrictions.

Step 11 - Clean the filter again.

Step 12 - Continue to brush the pool 3 to 4 times a day for 3 days.

Step 13 - Test the pool again.

Step 14 - Re-shock the pool if there is any sign of the algae reappearing. Follow up with a second dose of algaecide as outline above, remembering to clean out any debris and keep equipment and filters sanitized.

Step 15 - Continue to brush the pool 3 to 4 times a day through this second treatment.

Step 16 - Repeat if necessary.

Step 17 - Maintain optimum pool chemistry and continue to brush the pool walls and floors 1 – 2 times a week. This is imperative to keeping the algae from blooming again. Once black algae have taken root, it has a tendency to come back if given a chance.

Step 18 - If this treatment is insufficient to remove the algae, drain the pool. Scrub vigorously with a stiff-bristled brush and vacuum the debris.

At this point, an application On & Gone is recommended. This product is not available to the public and must only be applied by a professional in a well-ventilated area following the manufacturer’s specifications. After 24 hours, scrub and vacuum again. If any signs of the algae persist, repeat, being sure to sanitize the equipment each time.

Step 19 - Once the pool has been refilled, remember to be diligent in maintaining the pool chemistry, ensuring proper circulation, cleaning the pool, and in regularly adding copper-based algaecide to the water as outlined in the pool maintenance guidelines.

LIMITED WARRANTY NOTICE:

This information is based on E.W. Industries Ltd.’s present knowledge and experience. E.W. Industries Ltd. assumes no liability for such information and advice. E.W. INDUSTRIES LTD. WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING LOSS OF PROFITS) OF ANY KIND. E.W. Industries Ltd. reserves the right to make any changes as required.