As soon as the summer season comes to an end, many swimming pools lose their vibrant turquoise color, leaving pool owners to deal with a green pool that is murky, cloudy, and full of algae. If left untreated during the cold months, the problem can get worse and even harm both the water quality and the pool itself. Taking action does not simply mean putting on a cover and walking away. There is a process to follow. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know and how to clear a green pool for winterization. You will learn how to tackle algae blooms and balance algae chemicals to ensure your pool is in tip-top shape when you need it again.
What can Make a Pool Color Change From Blue to Green?
Before exploring solutions, it is important to understand what causes a pool to turn green. Algae is the known culprit here. This microscopic plant-like organism can thrive in warm, stagnant water and can quickly change the color of your pool.
Most common causes are:
- Chemical imbalance – An imbalanced pH allows for algae to thrive, and it may be due to low chlorine levels.
- Poor circulation – When your pumps and filters are not functioning efficiently, algae can easily thrive.
- Warm weather and sunlight – Algae actually thrives in warm water that is not properly treated.
- Lack of pool maintenance – When you skip brushing, vacuuming, or shocking your pool, this becomes a perfect environment for algae growth.
Instructions on How to Clear a Green Pool for Winterization
If you do not deal with algae before pool closing, you could be opening to a swampy mess in spring. That is why taking care of a green pool now can translate to a smooth winterization. Here are 9 steps to include in your checklist as you prepare for the cold season.
Step 1: Removing Debris
Prepare your leaf rake, net skimmer, and pool vacuum. Remove and throw away leaves, twigs, dead insects, and any dirt from your pool. Be sure to clean out the pump and skimmer baskets. This first step ensures that any chemicals you use will work effectively and reach every part of your pool.
Step 2: Testing and Balancing Water Chemistry
Knowing your water chemistry is crucial before applying treatments. You will need to check the following:
● pH levels - must be between 7.2 and 7.6
● Chlorine - ideally at 1 to 3 ppm during the season, but higher when pool shocking
● Alkalinity - keep it at 80 to 120 ppm
● Calcium hardness - have it at 200 to 400 ppm
Adjustments can be done as needed. If the pool’s pH is too high, chlorine will be ineffective. Use a muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate first to lower the pH.
Test strips offer a convenient method for quick, routine testing. However, a full liquid reagent test kit is essential for obtaining the precise and reliable data required for effective water balancing.
Step 3: Shocking the Pool
Pool chlorine shock is the fastest way to eliminate algae. It is a concentrated form of chlorine or a non-chlorine oxidizer, designed to super-chlorinate your pool water. Begin by calculating the water volume of your pool. For severe algae, use a higher dose, twice or thrice higher than a regular shock treatment. Ensure it is evenly applied across the pool. Lastly, run the pump for at least 24 to 48 hours. In some cases, you may need to shock the pool more than once, depending on its condition.
Step 4: Brushing and Circulating
When pool shocking is done, the algae from the pool surfaces needs to be brushed. The walls, flooring, and steps have to be thoroughly brushed using pool brush. The corners, ladders, and shaded areas are where algae usually cling. Let the filtration system run for a few days to trap the dead algae, and clean and backwash the filter regularly, as it can clog quickly.
Step 5: Using Algaecide
Adding an algaecide to the water after shock treatment can give lasting protection. While this does not effectively kill algae compared to shock treatment, it helps prevent regrowth during the winter. Remember to select a winter algaecide formula, follow the instructions for correct dosage, and distribute it evenly.
Step 6: Vacuuming to Waste
A very easy process to get rid of dead algae from your pool water. Manually vacuuming waste will eliminate all debris without clogging the filter. You can perform this if your pool water still looks dull or has fine sediments settling at the bottom.
Step 7: Reducing the Water Level
To prevent freezing damage, especially for in-ground pools, the water level must be lowered below the skimmer opening. For above-ground pools, lower the water, but not too much, as the pool structure also needs water to support the walls.
Step 8: Draining and Storing Equipment
Aside from paying attention to the pool itself, you also need to ensure your equipment is kept safe. Do not forget to drain the pumps, filters, heaters, and chlorinators. Store your ladders, skimmer basket, and hose inside. Use a shop vac or air compressor to clear water from your plumbing lines and protect them from freeze damage.
Step 9: Covering and Securing the Pool
You will also need to invest in a good-quality winter safety cover for your pool. One that can withstand the cold winter weather and block debris, sunlight, and algae spores. Ensure it is tight, with no gaps around the edges, and properly anchored to keep any contaminants out.
Step 10: Do not Cover Too Early
A common mistake that pool owners make is closing too early. If the water is still warm. Even if the pool water looks clean, algae can definitely thrive under the pool cover. Think of it as locking the problem instead of doing something to prevent it. The temperature should be consistently 65°F (18°C) or below. When you cover too early, you increase the chance of needing to do a repeat cleaning before spring.
Preparing your green pool for winter may feel overwhelming, but it is crucial to ensure an easy, trouble-free opening next season. By following the simple steps for proper winterization above, you can have peace of mind knowing that your pool remains clear and inviting when the warm weather comes.
