Algaecides

A clean-looking swimming pool does not always guarantee pure and safe water. In fact, some of the most harmful elements are those which cannot be seen by the naked eyes.

Algae are among the most common microscopic components of unsafe pool water. These single-celled matters are a form of plant life, brought into the pool water through atmospheric factors such as rain and water. Algae have more than 30,000 varieties, all of which contain chlorophyll. These are known to be the most abundant living organisms on Earth.

But algae-free pool water can still be achieved through the implementation of an appropriate chemical program. Make sure that your pool has a regular maintenance schedule so that algae growth can be prevented.

The use of algaecides, or chemicals that destroy the various types of algae, should be a part of the pool maintenance. The onset of algae is mostly due to poor maintenance. But this is not the only factor that brings about the existence of algae in water. Pools mostly play host to algae during the summer months.

Algaecides are the most effective algae killers. Some people say that there are two categories of algaecides available. Others insist that there are three. So, for the safe of discussion, the three known types will be defined: metallic algaecides, polyquats, and quats.

Metallic Algaecides is a category that is appropriate for use towards the end of winter and in the prevention of algae blooms as well. The oldest type is the copper algaecides which was proven to be extremely effective in killing algae. However, the use of copper algaecides is also known to result in stains. Copper salts, which are soluble, have the tendency to precipitate from the water and accumulate on the walls of the pool over time. This “process” causes discoloration. With chlorine present in the water as well, copper salts react and cause black and gray stains.

Silver algaecide is another part of metallic algaecides. Although this type is as effective as the copper-based type, its efficiency is slower than that of the copper. Moreover, silver algaecide, no doubt, is a lot more expensive as well.

Quats is the cheapest and most-sought after algaecides in the market today. Mot of the time, this type can be bought at 5% to 10% active concentrations, and are commonly used as preventive measures against algae. Its major disadvantage is foaming. Adding quats to water that uses a pool pump is enough to create suds. Although this may not be a pleasant sight, it is not a major problem nonetheless.

Polyquats are simply the refined version of the quats. They are available in 30% to 60% concentrations. If quats are used to prevent the existence of algae, polyquats are commonly utilized to remove existing ones. Moreover, while the foaming problem of quats is totally eliminated through the use of polyquats, the tag price is still a huge trade-off. So, if you don’t mind some foam, polyquats is not such a practical option.

When using an algaecide, make sure that you add it first. Let it stay overnight before adding any other chemicals like chlorine because it will destroy the whole process. Also, when choosing from among the various algaecides, take a closer look at the active ingredients (ammonia, copper, etc.) and concentrations. Anything that has less than 30% active concentration will not be able to do the job of those with higher concentrations. Better distribution of the algaecide guarantees faster results. But better results does not mean going beyond the amount specified.

Because the most dangerous elements in pool water are those that we cannot visibly see, regular pool cleaning should always be done. After all, real cleanliness does not only mean being physically clean.