If you have ever stood next to a pool that went unused for a long time, you have surely seen that greenish water that makes even the deck and the edges slippery and smells like a river, right?
This happens because of the growth of algae, or fungi, in the pool, and it can be easily solved with the help of an algaecide.
In today's article, we will talk more about this subject and help you understand just how important this product is.
What is an algaecide?
An algaecide is a chemical product based on chelated copper ions, although it can also be made with iron salts, sodium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite and others.
It is used to eliminate or prevent algae in water, keeping it from turning green and taking on that slippery feel we mentioned earlier.
On the market, you will find two types of algaecide: shock and maintenance.
Shock Algaecide
Shock algaecide is used to treat water that is already affected by algae. This makes the treatment more effective and, after a while, you will have clean water free of these organisms.
How to use it:
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With a pool brush and telescopic pole in hand, brush the floor and walls of the pool, loosening all the dirt and algae residue stuck to the surface.
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In a bucket, dilute 10ml of shock algaecide for every 1,000 liters of water. Turn on the pump, set the pool filter to recirculate, and spread the product evenly across the pool water.
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Leave it running like this for 2 hours, then let the water rest for about 6 to 12 hours. During this time, the dead algae will settle to the bottom of the pool.
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To finish the cleaning, vacuum the pool with the filter set to drain.
Maintenance Algaecide
This product is recommended for pools that have no algae or have recently been cleaned, to keep them that way. It prevents algae from appearing and spreading in the water.
How to use it:
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In a bucket of water, dilute 5ml of maintenance algaecide for every 1,000 liters of pool water.
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Pour the mixture evenly over the entire pool.
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Turn on the pump and set the filter to recirculate. Leave it like this for 1 hour, then turn off the pump to finish.
Essential Precautions
Even though it is a commonly used chemical, you need to take the proper precautions when handling it to avoid accidents or contamination, so keep the following points in mind:
- Do not use algaecide and chlorine together if the algaecide is copper-based.
- The ideal algaecide dosage may vary by manufacturer, so always read the directions on the package.
- Do not use the algaecide without diluting it in water.
- Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes and mouth.
- Always keep the product in its original packaging.
- Keep the product away from children and pets.
Now that you know what the product is for and how to handle it, we hope your pool stays clean with the help of a quality algaecide!
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