Solution Center

Algae Problems

Algae are single-celled plants that live in water. Following are conditions that may contribute to algae growth: High pH (over 7.6), low or no Free Chlorine residual, poor water circulation or short filter.


PROBLEM: Green algae is the most common type of algae. Usually floats freely in water but can grow on the surface as well.  It causes "pea soup" green water

SOLUTION:  Adjust the pH of the water to 7.2 to 7.6 and be sure the Free Chlorine residual is 1-3 ppm.  Algae treatments will be much less effective if the pool cannot maintain a chlorine residual. Each algaecide has specific application information on the label. Read and follow label directions.

Use the following algaecides: 

Success will be improved with proper brushing of the pool. Run the filter for 24-48 hours following treatment or until the water clears. Repeat treatment as necessary. Add SUN Tru-Blue® Super Concentrated Water Clarifier to help clear the water of dead algae and debris. Thereafter, make sure that the pH is 7.2 — 7.6 and that the Free Chlorine residual between 1-3 ppm is maintained.


PROBLEM: Black algae has a dark black color and appears as sporadically scattered black splotches. Sometimes appears as tar-like deposits on bottom. Can be difficult to remove with scraping; attaches itself to pool walls (primarily plaster) and sends roots deep into the finish

SOLUTION:  Adjust the pH of the water to 7.2 to 7.6 and be sure the Free Chlorine residual is 1-3 ppm.  Algae treatments will be much less effective if the pool cannot maintain a chlorine residual. Each algaecide has specific application information on the label. Read and follow label directions.

Use the following algaecides: 

Be sure to brush with a brush compatible with your surface. Use a stainless steel brush for plaster (gunite) pools. Run the filter for 24-48 hours following treatment or until the water clears. Repeat treatment as necessary. Add SUN Tru-Blue® Super Concentrated Water Clarifier to help clear the water of dead algae and debris. Thereafter, make sure that the pH is 7.2 — 7.6 and that a Free Chlorine residual is maintained between 1-3 ppm.


PROBLEM: Yellow-Mustard algae is yellowish-green to brown in color; appears light and buoyant; powder-like appearance (almost like pollen). Appears on walls and in shaded areas of pool; can grow very quickly. Can be resistant to regular algae treatments.

SOLUTION:  Adjust the pH of the water to 7.2 to 7.6 and be sure the Free Chlorine residual is 1-3 ppm.  Algae treatments will be much less effective if the pool cannot maintain a chlorine residual. Each algaecide has specific application information on the label. Read and follow label directions.

Choose the following algaecide: SUN Algi-Crush™

Be sure to brush with a brush compatible with your surface. Run the filter for 24-48 hours following treatment or until the water clears. Repeat treatment as necessary. Add SUN Tru-Blue® Super Concentrated Water Clarifier to help clear the water of dead algae and debris. Thereafter, make sure that the pH is 7.2 — 7.6 and that the Free Chlorine residual is maintained between 1-3 ppm.


PROBLEM: Pink slime is reddish or pinkish color in appearance, slippery feel and usually visible at waterline or around lights, ladders and other fixtures.

SOLUTION:  Adjust pH to 7.2- 7.6 and be sure the Free Chlorine residual is 1-3 ppm. Check around lights, ladders, skimmers, etc., and brush all visible growth using a surface-compatible brush. Shock the pool using SUN-Burn® Extra, SUN-Burn® 35. Apply product per label directions.  Reapply product until a Free Chlorine residual of 8 ppm is achieved. Hold a Free Chlorine residual @ 8 ppm for 8 to 10 hours after product application. Run filter continuously during process and for 24 hours after last product addition or until water clears. Add SUN Tru-Blue® Super Concentrated Water Clarifier to help clear the water. Thereafter, make sure to maintain the pH at 7.2 — 7.6 and that the Free Chlorine residual is maintained between 1-3 ppm.


PROBLEM: Water mold is colorless to white in appearance.

SOLUTION: Adjust pH to 7.2- 7.6. Check around lights, ladders, skimmers, etc., and brush all visible growth using a surface-compatible brush. Shock the pool using SUN-Burn® Extra, SUN-Burn® 35. Apply product per label directions.  Reapply product until a Free Chlorine residual of 8 ppm is achieved.  Apply product per label directions. Hold a Free Chlorine residual @ 8 ppm for 8 to 10 hours after product application. Run filter continuously during process and for 24 hours after last product addition or until water clears. Add SUN Tru–Blue® Super Concentrated Water Clarifier to help clear the water. Thereafter, make sure to maintain the pH at 7.2 — 7.6 and that the Free Chlorine residual is maintained between 1-3 ppm.


Hints/Preventive Maintenance: Maintain proper sanitizer and water balance levels, and make sure the filter is operating properly. During periods of high bather loads, high temperatures, after heavy rainfalls or at the first signs of deteriorating water quality, shock your pool in order to help keep the Free Chlorine residual in the 1-3 ppm range. Keep the pool bottom free of leaves and other debris. Regular use of SUN Algae Preventor and shocking the pool is recommended as a safeguard against algae getting started.