How to Fix a Green Pool Fast

How to Fix a Green Pool Fast

How to Fix a Green Pool Fast


A green pool is every pool owner's nightmare. Whether you're hosting a weekend barbecue or getting ready for a relaxing swim, nothing puts a damper on your plans like murky green water staring back at you. But don't worry—with the right steps, you can restore your pool’s sparkling blue glory quickly and efficiently.

This blog will guide you through the steps you need to take to clean up your green pool fast, why it got that way to begin with, and how to prevent it from happening again. And if you’re in Ocoee, FL and need help along the way, you can always rely on Pure & Simple Poolcare for professional assistance.
 

Why Does Your Pool Turn Green?

Before we get into the solutions, it’s important to know the cause behind that dreaded green color. The primary culprit? Algae.

When your pool’s chlorine levels drop, algae begin to grow and spread. It’s especially common during hot and humid months in Ocoee, FL, when pool maintenance might easily fall by the wayside. Other factors that contribute to a green pool include:

  • Imbalanced pH and chemical levels
  • Poor filtration or lack of circulation in the pool
  • High levels of debris, such as leaves or dirt
  • Insufficient cleaning or sanitization

Understanding what caused your pool to turn green is crucial for deciding the right course of action and preventing the problem in the future.
 

What You'll Need to Clean Your Green Pool

Before getting started, grab these essentials:

  • Pool testing kit
  • Shock chlorine treatment
  • Pool brush
  • Pool vacuum
  • Algaecide (if needed)
  • Flocculant or clarifier (optional, for stubborn pools)

Once you’re ready with these tools, you’re just a few steps away from a clear and clean pool.
 

6 Steps to Fix a Green Pool Fast

Step 1: Test Your Pool Water

Start by testing your pool water using a testing kit. Check the levels of pH, alkalinity, and chlorine.

Here’s what to aim for:

  • pH: Between 7.2 and 7.6
  • Free chlorine: 1 to 3 parts per million (ppm)
  • Alkalinity: 80 to 120 ppm

If your chemical levels are way off, it’s time to adjust them before shocking the pool.

Step 2: Shock the Pool

Here comes the heavy-duty step. Shocking your pool involves adding a high dose of chlorine to kill algae and bacteria. Use a granular chlorine shock for best results.

How to do it:

  1. Calculate the recommended dosage based on your pool size. Follow the instructions on the shock package.
  2. Dissolve the chlorine shock granules in water before adding them to the pool to prevent liner damage.
  3. Pour the mixture around the edges of your pool evenly.
  4. Run your pool pump continuously for 24 hours to circulate the chemicals.

Step 3: Brush the Walls and Floor

Once you’ve shocked the pool, you’ll also want to manually loosen any algae stuck on the walls or floor. Use a pool brush, and don’t be afraid to scrub thoroughly.

Pay extra attention to tight corners, steps, and ladders, as algae love to hide in these areas.

Step 4: Vacuum the Pool

After brushing, vacuum the debris and dead algae to keep it from clouding the water. If your pool is equipped with an automatic vacuum, great! Otherwise, you might need a manual vacuum for more control and finesse.

Optional tip for heavy algae blooms:

  • If the pool is still cloudy or murky, consider using a flocculant to clump debris together for easier vacuuming.

Step 5: Add Algaecide (If Needed)

If shocking and vacuuming don’t completely solve the problem, you might need to add an algaecide to the mix. Algaecides are specially formulated to target stubborn algae growth. Follow the instructions on the label for proper usage.

Step 6: Run the Filter System Non-stop

Lastly, run your pool’s filter continuously for 24 to 48 hours. Proper filtration ensures that any remaining contaminants are removed from the water. Remember to backwash or clean your filter as needed during this time.
 

Preventing Your Pool from Turning Green Again

Once your pool is sparkling clean, don’t stop there. Routine care will prevent algae and ensure your pool remains swimmable at all times. Follow these best practices for long-term results:

  • Maintain chemical levels: Test and balance your pool water weekly to keep pH, alkalinity, and chlorine at proper levels.
  • Run your pool pump regularly: Ensure the pump runs at least 8 to 12 hours a day in peak swimming season for adequate circulation.
  • Skim and brush your pool often: Regular cleaning removes debris and prevents algae from forming.
  • Shock after heavy use or rain: Additional chlorine after pool parties, storms, or excessive heat prevents algae blooms.
  • Schedule professional maintenance: If you live in Ocoee, FL, Pure & Simple Poolcare offers regular services to keep your pool pristine.
     

Need Fast Pool Cleaning Help in Ocoee, FL?

A green pool doesn’t have to ruin your weekend plans. With the quick steps above, your pool can go from green to clean in no time. But if it still feels overwhelming, you don’t have to face it alone.

At Pure & Simple Poolcare, we’re experts in fast, efficient pool cleaning in Ocoee, FL. Whether you need water testing, equipment checks, or regular maintenance, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us today for a free estimate, and we’ll get your pool back to its sparkling best in no time.