What kills black algae in a pool?
Black algae is the stubborn, deeply rooted kind, and the copper based Black Algaetrine from Applied Biochemists is the one on this shelf formulated for it. The polyquat 60 products list black algae among the types they prevent, and Clearview Copper Strike is another copper option. Whichever you pick, the label sets the dose by pool volume.
How do I get rid of mustard algae?
Mustard, or yellow, algae is what the Yellow Out, Yellow Treat and The Yellow Stuff products are named for. They are used together with chlorine, and Coral Seas says Yellow Out works without brushing. Copper algaecides such as Swimtrine Plus also list mustard algae as one they kill. Read the label for the chlorine level to hold while you treat.
Do I use algaecide or shock to clear a green pool?
Usually both: several of these treatments are written to be used along with chlorine, and the algaecide also helps keep algae from returning. Swamp Treat is written to work with chlorine on a green pool, and some labels say to apply before the chlorinating shock. Shock itself is on the pool shock page.
How much algaecide does my pool need?
It depends on the product and the gallons, so start with your pool volume. One pound of Swamp Treat is rated for 20,000 gallons. The PoolRx mineral units suit pools from 7,500 up to 20,000 gallons, and the Booster Black/White suits 20,000 up to 30,000. Liquids give a dose per gallons of water on the label, and a bigger bottle simply holds more doses.
What is the difference between polyquat 60 and a copper algaecide?
Polyquat 60 is a metal free, non-foaming concentrate, used mainly to prevent algae, and sold as effective against all types. A copper algaecide is a metal based treatment aimed at black algae and at mustard and green algae that are already growing. If you only want upkeep, polyquat is the plain choice, and if you are fighting a particular color, match that color.
Is there an algaecide that lasts 90 days?
Yes. Church and Dwight Nava Label 90 Day Algaecide and the Pool Frog BAM bottle from King Technology are the long-life choices here, with the BAM bottle rated for a 15,000 gallon pool. The PoolRx mineral algaecide units are another low-maintenance route. A long-life formula does not replace a clean filter and a chlorine residual.