In the discussion about what type of pool is best one factor that sometimes gets lost is the subject of algae. Most folks think of it as something to worry about after the pool installation has been done, but you may be able to actually head off a lot of your later algae problems by simply choosing the right pool material.
Pool companies appreciate fiberglass pools for their easy installation, while homeowners love those smooth surfaces. But fiberglass pools possess another quality that shouldn’t be overlooked: the ability to simplify the never ending battle against algae. That’s because that nice smooth surface everyone loves underfoot also serves as an inhospitable home to potential algae colonies. They much prefer the rough finish of aggregate (where they can grab a nice firm foothold) to fiberglass, (where they’ll spend all their time holding on for dear life).
Keep Algae At Bay By Following These Tips From our Pool Installation Pros
- Use Your Pool – This may seem like a strange thing to say, but a pool that sits unused for long stretches of time is far more likely to develop an algae problem, while an active pool is one where algae will have a hard time making themselves at home.
- Vacuum Regularly – Give your fiberglass pool a good scrub several times a month to get rid of dirt and debris and any algae colonies that are attempting to gain a foothold. If you can’t do it yourself, ask the pool installation team if they’ll provide that service or give the kid next door a summer job as your pool cleaner.
- Don’t Turn Off Your Pump – The best way to ensure you’ll have an algae problem is to stop circulating and filtering the water. Algae love stagnant water like kids love ice cream. If you’re worried about wasting energy there are energy efficient pumps available that will keep the water moving without ballooning your carbon footprint.
- Maintain Proper Chlorine Levels – Keep a sharp eye on the chlorine level and never let it slip below optimal if possible. This will help keep algae at bay, as they are not fans of chlorine. You might also consider adding a bit of salt to the water as this can boost the effectiveness of the chlorine.
- Keep Your Filter Clean – Maintaining a clean filter is essential to maintaining proper circulation in your fiberglass pool. A clogged filter means slower circulation and an opening for algae to set up shop.
- Add Algaecides – Do this once a week or so as a means of buttressing your other anti-algae efforts and you’ll keep your fiberglass pool a no man’s land for algae.
As professional pool installation experts in Toronto, we can assure you that if you institute a comprehensive anti-algae program like the one laid out here there’s no reason algae should ever be a problem in your fiberglass pool. Chlorine itself may be enough to keep algae at bay, especially in a fiberglass pool, but just to be sure to keep everything clean and moving and in use during the warmer months.
What are You Waiting for? Call Today for an Algae Free Pool Installation!
Seabreeze Pools has built some of the most breathtaking pools in the Greater Toronto Area. As pool installation specialists go, we’re second to none. Whether you want an endless pool, an infinity pool, an irregularly shaped, one-of-a-kind marvel with custom interior lighting schemes or the standard shallow end/deep end rectangular classic, we can design and build it for you at a price that may surprise you. Give us a call on 416-238-6700 to find out more about custom-built fiberglass pools or to arrange a sit down with one of our award winning designers.