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Questions and answers about sports

Does yellow algae stain pools?

3 min read

Asked by: Eugene Sheehan

Mustard algae (also called yellow algae) is like the cousin of green algae, but is more commonly seen in southern climates like California, Florida, and Texas. If you have mustard algae in your pool, it might look like a stain, pollen, some sand, or dirt.

What does yellow algae look like in your pool?

Although it is known as mustard or yellow, the algae’s color is usually yellowish-green. But unlike its cousin green algae, which is typically slimy and hard to brush off, mustard algae tend to look like dirt, sand, stain, or pollen. And as mentioned, it grows in shaded areas like the bottom or sides of your pool.

Can you swim in pool with yellow algae?

But is it safe to swim in a pool with algae? Whether mild or severe, it isn’t recommended. Significant amounts of swimming pool algae welcome a breeding ground of harmful bacteria that feed on algae. These bacteria pose health risks to swimmers, most commonly resulting in a skin rash.

How do you get rid of yellow algae stains?

You're not going to get the highest amount of chlorine to kill that yellow algae and so if we wait till nighttime. And let that pool system the pool filter.

Why does my pool keep getting yellow algae?

There are many variables at play when it comes to yellow algae, but the two constants are a lack of filtration and lack of chlorine. When it comes to effecting those two constants, factors such as pump speed, run time, sanitation method, bather load, and even the weather all have a part to play.

How do I prevent yellow algae in my pool?

Kill Mustard Algae in Ten Easy Steps

  1. Machine Wash Your Bathing Suits. …
  2. Clean Your Pool Toys, Floats, Etc. …
  3. Brush and Vacuum out the Mustard Algae. …
  4. Test and Balance Your Pool Water. …
  5. Brush Your Pool—Again. …
  6. Triple-Shock Your Swimming Pool. …
  7. Test and Confirm Your Pool is Algae-Free.


Does mustard algae look like sand?

Mustard algae is a form of green algae that is highly resistant to chlorine. Special treatments must be used to eliminate it. Mustard algae is yellowish-green in color and often looks like dirt or sand on the bottom or sides of the pool. It brushes away very easily, but returns quickly.

Does algaecide work on mustard algae?

Why Use an Algaecide? While liquid and granular chlorine have been proven to be effective sanitizers, using an algaecide that is designed to treat yellow algae specifically is the smartest way to get rid of the problem quickly.

What happens if you use too much algaecide in a pool?

The presence of too much algaecide can lead to a foamy pool water. Small bubbles will begin to be produced as the water is pushed through the return jet and back into the pool. Do not confuse these bubbles and foam with another common problem, which is air in your pool lines.

What is the best algaecide for mustard algae?

If you have a saltwater pool, your best bet is EasyCare PoolTec. This all-star algaecide that controls and prevents green algae, mustard algae, and black algae while delivering beautiful water clarity. Additionally, it’s designed to boost the effectiveness of chlorine in pools that use saltwater chlorinators.