How do I know if my pool has Mustard Algae?
Posted on Thu, Jul 21, 2011 @ 01:56 PM
Mustard algae is a very common form of algae that seems to flourish sometimes in the Hazy, Humid, Hot days of June, July and August across the south and southeast.
It forms little piles around the pool that resemble dirt. When you brush these piles, they turn into clouds and then return in spots. it has a yellow browish color and that is really the best way to describe it.
Mustard algae can be a problem if the pool is not maintained correctly. Many times it is caused by not maintaining a proper chlorine level, infrequent shock treatments and not adding a wide spectrum algaecide like Banish.
Many times mustard algae is introduced to the pool from other pools through swimsuits. If someone swims in a pool that has mustard algae and then swims in a pool that doesn't, it can spread fairly easily. This can be prevented by washing the swimsuit with a detergent in warm water.
Once it is determined to be mustard algae, and not dirt it will need to be treated. bring your water to a local Authorized Bioguard pool dealer or Pool and Spa Connection to have the water tested. You will want to adjust the pH level between 7.2 and 7.6.
Next adjust the Stabilizer or CYA level to 30 to 40 PPM with Stablizer 100 to establish the correct level.
Brush the pool to stir up the algae then with the pump running add 1 lb of Burn Out Extreme for every 6000 gallons of water. You can add product around the perimeter of the pool just make sure to brush it quickly after you add it to get the product distributed and off the liner.
Let pool circulate 1 hour than add 16oz. of Banish brand algaecide per label directions for every 10,000 gallons of water. This is a copper based algaecide and is most specific for killing mustard algae.
It is very important to brush all corners and around ladders plus the light niche to get all the algae out where the chemicals can kill it. You will also want to put all the pool tools and toys into the pool so they can be treated or else they can reinfect the pool.
Follow these instructions and then keep a maintenance dosage of Banish in your pool and you will be Algae Free!
Dont' let algae get you upset, use Bioguard products from your local Authorized BioGuard Dealer as these will help with all your pool water needs.
Please post any questions or comments as we will try our best to answer your question as soon as possible.
Thank you, The team at the Pool and Spa Connection,