What causes mustard algae in a swimming pool?

Asked by: Carmen Nixon

Under certain conditions, algae will quickly bloom, seemingly overnight. These conditions include warm temperatures, the presence of carbon dioxide or nitrates, out-of-balance water and warm sunny days. Poor pool care, including a lack of circulation, poor sanitation, and filtration, is also a cause of mustard algae.

How does a pool get mustard algae?

What Causes Mustard Algae in the First Place? Algae will usually spill into the pool when heavy rain washes organic material into the water. It can also attach itself to swimwear and contaminate the water. It is common to have a mustard algae outbreak after many people have used the swimming pool.

How do you get rid of mustard algae in a swimming pool?

We recommend to superchlorinate your pool or spa with calcium hypochlorite, such as cal-hypo granular, or sodium hypochlorite, such as liquid bleach. To maximize efficiency, add your shock to the water at dusk or at night and leave your filter and pump running 24 hours a day until the mustard algae is gone.

Why does mustard algae keep coming back?

Mustard Algae in Pools
Yellow algae can even infect pools that are meticulously maintained; with proper water balance, sanitizer levels and well-filtered water. Mustard algae is resistant to normal levels of chlorine, and can quickly return to the same spot if not killed completely.

Can you swim in pool with mustard algae?

In some cases, mustard algae may not even be as slimy as other types of algae. While mustard algae is not harmful to humans, an overgrowth can attract harmful bacteria like e. coli. What’s more, they can cloud the water and stain the swimming pool.

How do I know if my pool has mustard algae?

To identify mustard from green algae, simply swipe a brush or your hand on your pool wall or steps. Once the dirt sends up a cloud, it’s a clear indicator that your swimming pool has yellow algae buildup. This type of algae is rather common and the majority of pools will acquire some at some point.

How often should I shock my pool?

about once a week

How Often Should I Shock My Pool? Shocking your pool regularly will help to keep the water clean and free of contaminants. You should aim to shock your pool about once a week, with the additional shock after heavy use. Some tell-tale signs that your pool needs to be shocked are cloudy, foamy, green, or odourous water.

What is the yellow stuff on the bottom of my pool?

What is Yellow Algae? Yellow or mustard algae is a form of green algae that has become resistant to chlorine and other sanitizers. Unlike green algae that floats on top of water, yellow algae clings to surfaces, such as the walls or bottom of the pool, or on other objects like pool lights, ladders, or filters.

How soon can you swim after using yellow gone?

Circulate pool water for 24 hours using only the main drain, if possible.

Why does my pool have yellow stains?

When there is too much of a mineral present in the water, it can begin to stain the pool. Shades of yellow can be a sign of excessive iron. Iron can be introduced into a pool by well water or pipe corrosion somewhere in the pool system.

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.

Is mustard algae resistant to chlorine?

Mustard algae is a chlorine-resistant form of green algae that often resembles dirt or sand on bottom or sides of pool. It contains compounds that act as a defense mechanism against the oxidation efforts of sanitizers, helping it survive even in highly chlorinated conditions.

Can you vacuum algae out of a pool?

All you need to do is bypass the filter and pool vacuum for algae to the waste. However, this can only work if you have a multiport system or a waste line system in your cartridge filter. Vacuum the pool to waste after you have set up the waste, and the debris and algae will get out of your pool.

Can algae grow in chlorinated pool?

Lower chlorine levels can lead to faster algae growth. This is because low or inconsistent chlorine levels contribute to poor water sanitation. Poor water sanitation is a factor that can lead to algae growth.

Should you backwash after shocking?

Steps for Preventing Algae
If your pool is used frequently, shock it at least once a week. Clean or backwash your filter regularly. Run your pool pump for at least 10 hours per day to completely circulate the water. Keep your phosphate levels below 100 ppb (parts per billion).