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Black algae usually forms in cracks and crevices on pool surfaces. One of the most distinguishing features of black algae is its rough texture. It forms
a skeletal growth on top to protect itself, which makes it almost impervious to normal levels of chlorine. To eliminate black algae, you must brush vigorously to remove this protective cell coating before applying
the recommended products. If you have a black stain on the pool surface and it does not have any texture, but feels smooth, it is likely that the problem is not black algae. It could be
a metal stain, or in cases where the surface is vinyl, it could be a fungus underneath the liner. To determine the nature of the stain if it does not have a texture, put some Lo'N Slo in a sock and hold it
directly on the stained area for one minute. If this lightens the stain, it is metal staining. If this does not work, you may try to hold a chlorinating stick or tablet on the stained area for one minute (in
chlorinated or brominated pools only). If this lightens the stain, it is organic. ***This is just an extra information tool. Please call us with your questions or bring in a water sample for
testing. We are here to help you.*** TREATMENTS FOR BLACK ALGAE
- Spot Kill Treatment
- Perform this treatment at night or when the pool is not in use. Test and adjust the pH to 7.4-7.6. Brush visible algae vigorously. Remember that it is necessary to remove the protective exoskeleton from the top of the algae growth. Turn off the pump. When the water becomes still, add 1 lb. of Spot Kill per 10,000 gallons for light growth. For heavy growth, add 2 lbs. per 10,000 gallons. Broadcast the product around the pool concentrating on areas of heaviest growth. Let the pool sit without cirulation for 12 to 24 hours. Turn the pump back on and brush the dead algae virorously, then vacuum the pool. Repeat this procedure if spots are still visible. Do not swim until the free chlorine residual has dropped down into the normal range. (DO NOT USE IN BIGUIANIDE/SOFTSWIM POOLS)
- Banish Treatment
- Test the water before beginning. If any metals are present, add Scale Inhibitor according to label instructions. Adjust the pH to 7.4-7.6. Establish and maintain the proper free chloring residual throughout the procedure. Vacuum any leaves and debris. Brush visible algae vigorously. Remember that it is necessary to remove the protective exoskeleton from the top of the algae growth. Add 1 lb. of Burn Out 35 or Burn Out Extreme per 6,000 gallons. Circulate 1 hour. With the pump and filter running, add 16 oz. of Banish per 10,000 gallons directly into the pool water. Concentrate in areas of heaviest growth. Circulate 24 hours. Brush and vacuum the pool. In cases of persistent algae, repeat application after 2-4 days. If needed, use Sparkle Up to help the filter remove dead algae more quickly. Do not add Sparkle Up until at least 72 hours after the Banish application. Swimmers may reenter the pool when the free chlorine residual returns the normal range. (DO NOT USE IN BIGUIANIDE/SOFTSWIM POOLS - DO NOT USE IN POOLS WITH AN IONIZATION/CATALYST UNIT UNLESS SCALE INHIBITOR IS USED PRIOR TO APPLICATION.)
SoftSwim Pools
- Brush visible algae vigorously. Remember that it is necessary to remove the protective exoskeleton from the top of the algae growth. Vacuum. Add 1 quart of SoftSwim A per 25,000
gallons. Wait 3-4 hours. Add 2 gallons of SoftSwim C per 10,000 gallons. Wait 2-3 hours. Add SoftSwim B up to 50 ppm. Circulate 24-48 hours. Re-treat if necessary.
When algae is dead, brush and vacuum to remove any remaining dead algae from the pool
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