You’ve just spent the last two hours scrubbing your pool floor. Your sweat is dripping down your forehead, and you’re wondering, “How much algaecide do I need for a 5,000 gallon pool?” Fear not! We’re here to help.
Why are algae toxic to swimming pools?
If they go unchecked, algae can cause many different problems for your pool. They can stain (greenish-brown tint) the water, decrease the clarity of the pool, and degrade the quality of your pool’s chemical balance. This can lead to eye irritation and skin irritation, as well as increased chlorine demand.
How much algaecide to add to a 5,000 gallon pool?
For algae-free swimming pools, add 34.5 to 48.5 oz of algaecide. For algae-infested pools, add 48.5 to 64 oz of algaecide. Well, these dosages are for initial treatment. Now, for maintenance purposes, the dose is 12 to 24 oz.
For the record, algaecides come in three forms: liquid, granular, or encapsulated. Liquid algaecides are easy to apply and are best used on hard surfaces like concrete. Granular algaecides are most effective when applied to the surface of a pool with a brush. Encapsulated tablets are the most difficult to apply but they’re also the longest lasting.
How do I add algaecide to my pool?
Step 1
Choose the correct algaecide based on the type of algae present. For green or black algae, use a silver algaecide. For yellow algae, use a copper-based algaecide. Alternatively, you can use all-purpose algaecide that treats several kinds of algae.
Step 2
Put on eye protection and rubber gloves to avoid skin burn and eye irritation.
Step 3
Pour the recommended dose into the water, ensuring you deposit on several points around the pool.
Step 4
Get the pump running to circulate the algaecide for 30 minutes.
Step 5
Vacuum the pool for 24 hours after application to get rid of dead algae.
Step 6
If the algae are still visible, repeat steps 3-5.
NB: For heavy algae, ensure to scrub the pool before application. Also, for best results, maintain the pH level at 7.2 to 7.6. Again, add the algaecide in the morning on a bright sunny day when the algae are most active.
When to add algaecide to your swimming pool
Algaecide treatment should be weekly after every shock treatment (addition of chlorine). Also, wait at least 24 hours after shock treatment before adding algaecide. For shock treatment, add 2 pounds of chlorine for every 10,000 gallons of water.
Why is my pool still green after algaecide treatment?
Most likely, your pool water has insufficient chlorine or an overabundance of metal elements. To avoid this, ensure you shock your pool as recommended and keep the chemicals in the water balanced. Also, ensure good water circulation and filtration.
Can I get rid of algae naturally?
Yes, you can use baking soda to kill algae. Bicarbonate, the active ingredient, works to kill and loosen algae from pool surfaces. However, to get every last particle free, you’ll need to grab a brush and do a good scrubbing. It’s a must, particularly for the stubborn black algae.
Conclusion
How much algaecide to use depends on what type of algaecide you want to use and which type of algae you have. But a good rule of thumb is 48.5 to 64 oz for a 5,000-gallon pool. This dosage, however, is for above-ground pools. With an in-ground pool, it’s best to call a professional. Also, before application, ensure the pH level is balanced and the chlorine level is at 3-5ppm.
Leave a Reply