Green Pool Treatment & Algae Removal

We Fix Green Pools Fast

A green pool is frustrating and embarrassing. What started as a beautiful backyard feature has turned into a swampy mess. The good news is that green pools can be fixed, usually in just a few days. We've treated hundreds of green pools in San Rafael, and we know exactly what it takes to get your water clear again.

Green water means algae has taken over your pool. This happens when chlorine levels drop too low or water chemistry gets severely imbalanced. Algae spores are always present, but they only grow out of control when conditions allow it. Extended periods without proper maintenance are the most common cause.

Many people try to fix green pools themselves by adding more chlorine, but that rarely works. Effective algae treatment requires the right chemicals in the right amounts at the right times. Our professional treatment process kills algae completely and prevents it from coming back.

How We Treat Green Pools

Our green pool treatment follows a proven process that delivers results. Here's exactly what we do:

• Remove large debris and visible leaves from the pool
• Test water chemistry to assess the severity of the problem
• Balance pH and alkalinity to prepare for shock treatment
• Apply powerful algaecide to kill algae at its source
• Shock the pool with high doses of chlorine
• Brush all surfaces to break up algae colonies
• Run the filter continuously for 24 to 48 hours
• Vacuum dead algae from the pool bottom
• Retest and rebalance water chemistry
• Monitor progress and repeat treatment if necessary

This process typically takes three to five days from start to finish. The exact timeline depends on how green your pool is and how quickly your filtration system can clear the dead algae. We'll visit your pool multiple times during treatment to monitor progress and make adjustments.

Different Types of Pool Algae

Not all algae problems are the same. Green algae is the most common type and usually the easiest to treat. It turns your water a murky green color and makes surfaces slippery. This is what most people mean when they talk about a green pool.

Yellow or mustard algae is less common but more stubborn. It appears as yellowish patches on pool walls and in shaded areas. This type requires stronger chemicals and more aggressive treatment than green algae.

Black algae is the most difficult to remove. It appears as dark spots that seem to grow roots into pool surfaces. Black algae requires intense treatment and sometimes physical scraping to eliminate completely. Fortunately, this type is rare in most San Rafael pools. Our pool treatment experts can identify and treat all types of algae problems.

Why DIY Algae Treatment Often Fails

Many homeowners try to treat green pools themselves by buying chlorine at the hardware store and dumping it in. This rarely works because treating algae requires more than just adding chlorine. You need to balance your pH first, use the right type and amount of shock, add proper algaecide, and continuously filter and brush the pool.

Another common mistake is not using enough chemicals. People are often shocked at how much chlorine it takes to actually kill severe algae. A truly green pool might need 10 to 20 pounds of shock treatment, plus professional-strength algaecide. Using too little just wastes money and prolongs the problem.

The filter also plays a crucial role. A dirty or clogged pool filter can't remove dead algae effectively, which means your pool stays cloudy even after treatment. We check and clean your filter as part of our green pool service to ensure it can handle the workload.

Preventing Future Algae Problems

Once we get your pool clear, you'll want to keep it that way. The best prevention is consistent maintenance. Pools need regular attention to stay balanced and algae-free. Even a week or two of neglect during warm weather can allow algae to start growing again.

Regular chlorine levels are essential. Your pool should maintain at least 1 to 3 parts per million of free chlorine at all times. Lower levels invite algae growth. Testing your water at least twice a week helps you catch problems before they become visible.

Many customers who've dealt with green pools decide that professional maintenance is worth the investment. Our weekly pool service keeps chemistry balanced and prevents algae from ever taking hold. It's much easier and cheaper to prevent algae than to treat it once it's established.