Algaecides not Suicides

Pool stores have dozens of different algaecides — one for every problem, right? Not Really! There are only four WORKABLE algaecides:

1. Chlorine
2. Bromine and some bromine compounds
3. ‘poly-quat’, and
4. Copper in all various incarnations

Packaged algaecides contain one of these products, or a mixture. So what works? For quick, TERMINATOR TYPE killing, chlorine does best. Copper goes into your pool in a many ways, ranging from ‘ionizers’ to algaecides to so-called ‘chlorine-free’ pool potions. No matter what you use, it stains pools and blond hair. (Makes your hair green!) So . . . what should you do? The easiest thing is simply to avoid algae in the first place. Want some algae preventing tips? Here are three: Brush regularly (weekly?), especially walls and deep end, to prevent invisible algae colonies from getting their start. Test your pool’s sanitizer levels regularly and never, NEVER let chlorine get low. Make sure your filter is working properly, and that your pump runs at least 6 hours per day, preferably divided into two different intervals If you follow these simple rules above you won’t look like a green-haired Goony and your pool will not make you want to pull your hair out.