How to Fix and Clean a Green Pool

How to Fix and Clean a Green Pool

How to Fix and Clean a Green Pool


A green pool is every pool owner’s nightmare. Whether it’s caused by algae, poor maintenance, or chemical imbalance, it’s an unsightly problem that can render your pool unusable. If you’ve discovered that your pool looks more like a swamp than a sanctuary, don’t worry. With the right approach, you can get it back to its sparkling, inviting blue in no time.

This guide will walk you through the essential steps to clean and fix a green pool safely and effectively. And if you’re in Winter Park, FL, and need professional help, we've got you covered.
 

Why Is Your Pool Green?

Before tackling the problem, it’s important to understand why your pool turned green in the first place. The culprit is usually algae, and algae thrive in pools with poor maintenance. Here are the common causes of a green pool:

  • Lack of Chlorine: Chlorine is essential for keeping your pool water sanitized. If the chlorine level drops too low, algae will have an opportunity to grow.
  • Dirty Pool Filters: A clogged or inefficient filter won’t remove debris, which can lead to algae growth.
  • Improper pH Levels: Balancing your pool's pH is crucial since an imbalance can lead to reduced effectiveness of the pool’s sanitizer.
  • Warm Weather: Hot temperatures speed up algae growth, especially if pool maintenance is neglected.

Understanding the root of the issue helps you plan your cleaning strategy and prevent future problems.
 

Tools You’ll Need to Clean a Green Pool

To clean a green pool, you’ll need the following tools and supplies:

  • Pool brush
  • Leaf skimmer or net
  • Pool vacuum
  • Water test kit
  • Chlorine shock treatment
  • Algaecide
  • Pool filter cleaning solution
  • Safety gloves and goggles

Once you’ve gathered these essentials, you’re ready to restore your pool.
 

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Green Pool

Step 1: Remove Debris

Use a leaf skimmer or pool net to remove any large debris floating on the surface or sitting at the bottom of your pool. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can clog your filter and hinder the cleaning process, so this step is crucial.

For tough-to-reach debris, consider using an automatic pool cleaner or a manual vacuum to suck up grime at the bottom of the pool.

Step 2: Test the Water Chemistry

Using a pool water test kit, check your pool's pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. A green pool often means these levels are out of balance. Specifically, test for the following:

  • pH Level: Ideal levels should be between 7.2 and 7.6.
  • Free Chlorine: A minimum level of 1.0 ppm is necessary to maintain clear water.
  • Alkalinity: Target levels between 80 to 120 ppm.

Adjust these levels if they’re out of range. Aim to get your pool within the optimal range before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Shock the Pool

Shocking the pool is the process of adding a concentrated dose of chlorine to kill algae and other contaminants. Here’s how to do it effectively:

  1. Use a chlorine shock treatment designed for pools (follow the product’s label instructions for dosage).
  2. Dissolve the chlorine shock in a bucket of water before adding it to the pool to avoid staining surfaces.
  3. Pour the solution evenly around the entire pool for maximum coverage.

Expect the water to turn cloudy after this step—that’s a good sign the algae are dying.

Step 4: Brush the Pool

Once the shock treatment is applied, use a pool brush to scrub the walls, floors, and steps of your pool. Focus on areas with visible green or black algae buildup. It’s an essential step to dislodge the algae and ensure it doesn’t grow back.

Be thorough, as stubborn algae can cling to surfaces even after shock treatment.

Step 5: Run the Filter Nonstop

Now that the algae are dead, it’s time to filter it out. Turn on your pool filter and run it continuously for at least 24 to 48 hours. Make sure to clean or backwash the filter regularly to prevent clogs.

Consider using a pool filter cleaner solution to ensure your filter is working at peak efficiency. This step will help remove all the tiny particles of dead algae from the water.

Step 6: Add Algaecide

After filtering, it’s time to add algaecide as a final measure. Algaecides work to prevent algae from regrowing in your pool. Many products also help clarify the water, leaving it looking crystal-clear. Follow the algaecide label for proper dosage and dispersal instructions.

Step 7: Test the Water Again

Once your pool starts looking clear, test the water again to ensure the chemical levels are properly balanced. Adjust as necessary to keep your pool water within the recommended ranges.

If everything checks out, you’re ready to enjoy your freshly cleaned pool!

 

Professional Pool Cleaning Services in Winter Park, FL

While it’s possible to clean a green pool on your own, the process can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. If you’re short on time or not sure where to start, that’s where Pure & Simple Poolcare comes in.

We offer expert pool cleaning services in Winter Park, FL, including everything from balancing water chemistry to removing stubborn algae. Our team has years of experience, ensuring your pool is cleaned thoroughly and professionally.

Plus, as a local business, we’re committed to providing top-notch service tailored to Florida’s unique climate and pool care needs.
 

How to Prevent a Green Pool in the Future

  • Test your water chemistry weekly and adjust chlorine and pH levels as needed.
  • Invest in a quality automatic pool cleaner or vacuum.
  • Skim debris from the surface daily, especially during windy or rainy weather.
  • Deep clean your pool filter at least once a month.
  • Hire a professional pool cleaning service for regular maintenance.

By incorporating these steps into your routine, you’ll reduce the chances of dealing with another green pool disaster.
 

Turn Your Green Pool Blue with Pure & Simple Poolcare

Cleaning a green pool is no small task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s an issue you can tackle head-on. If you’re in Winter Park, FL, and prefer to leave the heavy lifting to the experts, Pure & Simple Poolcare is here to help.

Contact us today for free estimates and say goodbye to green pools for good. Your sparkling blue pool awaits!