Ever wonder why your pool is still growing algae despite a good chemical balance? Well the answer just may be that the phosphate levels in your pool are out of control. Phosphates are known nutrients that help increase plant growth rates such as in algae.
Where do they come from?
Phosphates often come from dead and decayed organics in your pool. This can be from fertilizer in your own lawn, or it can be blown in from the wind (even invisible amounts). They also come from an abundance of debris. When you often get leaves, pollen, flowers, bugs, or anything like that in the pool they will sit in your filter and break down into phosphates. Another common cause is dogs, and lots of people swimming in the pool. Phosphates from people can come off their bodies in things such as skin cells, and detergents from the suits, and dogs are usually covered in phosphates.
How to Remove Phosphates?
First your going to need to determine the level of phosphates within your swimming pool. By taking a sample of your water to a local pool supply store or purchasing your own phosphate test kit you will have a better idea of which product to purchase. For high levels of phosphates the Orenda PR-10,000 seems to be the best product available. Follow the directions that come with the product and add to the remover around the perimeter of the pool. The water will turn cloudy for a short period of time. Keep the water circulating for roughly eight hours depending on the size of the pool. After adding the product note the pressure on your pool filter and clean if the pressure rises 10 pounds over your clean filter pressure. Test the water again and repeat the process until your phosphate levels are less than 100 ppb.
Continued Maintenance:
It’s best to check for phosphates on a monthly basis to ensure that levels do not rise above 100ppb. By adding a regular phosphate prevention solution you can rest assured that your pool will stay healthy and you won’t spend hours of time fighting an algae infestation.
At Marker Pool Service we take care of phosphates at no additional cost. While many other companies charge for this service we feel that it should be a part of the regular maintenance of your swimming pool. If you would like a free in home chemical analysis of your swimming pool don’t hesitate to call us.
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