How to Prevent Algae in Your Pool

A Central Florida Homeowner’s Guide to Clear, Clean, and Healthy Water

Pool algae is one of the most common issues for homeowners in Central Florida. Warm temperatures, frequent rain, and intense sunlight create the perfect environment for algae to grow — unless you stay ahead of it with consistent maintenance.

At Professional Pool Company, we teach homeowners simple, reliable strategies to keep their pool water clear and algae-free all year long.

⭐ Why Algae Forms in Pools

Algae thrives when one or more of the following conditions occur:

• Low or inconsistent chlorine levels
• Poor circulation
• Imbalanced water chemistry
• Warm water and sunlight exposure
• Organic debris left in the pool
• Dirty filters or clogged baskets

The good news? With a few consistent habits, algae becomes easy to prevent.

⭐ How to Prevent Algae in Your Pool

✔ Maintain Proper Chlorine Levels (2–4 ppm)

Chlorine is your most important defense against algae.

If chlorine levels drop too low—especially in hot weather—algae can spread quickly.

Pro Tip for Florida: You’ll need more chlorine in summer due to high UV exposure.

✔ Test Water Chemistry Weekly

Balanced water prevents algae from attaching to surfaces.

Monitor regularly:

• pH: 7.4–7.6
• Total Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
• Stabilizer (CYA): 30–50 ppm

If CYA gets too high, chlorine becomes less effective.

✔ Brush the Pool Weekly

Algae begins as a thin layer on walls, steps, and sun shelves.

Brushing:

• Breaks algae loose
• Prevents early growth
• Improves chlorine penetration

High-use areas like the waterline and shallow steps need extra attention.

✔ Run Your Pump Long Enough Each Day

Circulation is essential for distributing chlorine and preventing stagnant areas.

Most Central Florida pools require:

• 8–12 hours per day in summer
• 6–8 hours per day in winter

Dead spots (corners, benches, sun shelves) are where algae forms first.

✔ Clean Skimmer Baskets and Filters Regularly

A clogged filter restricts flow and weakens your chlorine’s effectiveness.

Maintain:

• Skimmer baskets: Check weekly
• Pump basket: Check monthly
• Cartridge filters: Clean every 4–6 weeks

Clean filters = stronger circulation.

✔ Remove Leaves and Organic Debris Promptly

Leaves, dirt, insects, and pollen quickly increase algae risk.

Use:

• A leaf rake
• Skimmer net
• Automatic cleaner or robot

Sitting debris feeds algae and reduces chlorine’s ability to sanitize.

✔ Shock the Pool as Needed

Shock treatments oxidize contaminants and reset your chlorine levels.

Shock after:

• Storms
• Heavy pool use
• Water turning cloudy
• Chlorine reading dips below 1 ppm

During summer, shocking weekly keeps algae away.

✔ Use an Algaecide as a Preventative (Optional)

Certain algaecides can help reinforce your chlorine.

They’re especially effective:

• During peak summer heat
• Before vacations
• If your pool gets heavy debris or pollen

Use only high-quality, non-foaming algaecides.

⭐ Why Algae Is So Common in Central Florida

Central Florida’s environment naturally encourages algae growth due to:

• High water temperatures
• Intense sunlight
• Heavy rainfall and storms
• Leaf debris from palms, oaks, and tropical landscaping
• Long swim season and increased swimmer load

Understanding these regional factors helps homeowners stay ahead of algae before it becomes a problem.

⭐ Professional Pool Company Recommendations for Algae Prevention

To maintain an algae-free pool:

• Test water 2–3 times per week in summer
• Brush the entire pool weekly
• Maintain consistent chlorine levels
• Run your pump daily
• Clean filters regularly
• Remove leaves quickly
• Shock as needed

Consistency is the key to crystal-clear water.

⭐ When to Call a Professional

If your pool develops:

• Green, yellow, or black algae
• Cloudy water that doesn’t clear
• Recurring algae after shocking
• Stains along the walls

…it’s time for a professional evaluation.

Black algae, in particular, requires specialized treatment.

⭐ Keep Your Water Crystal Clear

At Professional Pool Company, we help Central Florida homeowners enjoy healthy, algae-free pools with simple maintenance routines and expert guidance.

👉 Need help diagnosing algae or correcting water chemistry?

Call 321-252-7371 or visit propoolco.com to schedule a consultation.

Updated on: 05/12/2025