How To Remove Algae From Pool Without A Vacuum?

Last Updated on November 25, 2022

Everyone wants a pool that gives a neat and exquisite feel. And that can only happen when it is clean. Pool cleaning is a relatively easy job if you have a vacuum cleaner. It will do the task in less time and more effectively. However, vacuums are a bit pricier if you are only going to use them for pool cleaning. And some people prefer doing chores manually, so it is time for those people to show their do-it-yourself skills. With the help of this guide, you will be able to get rid of stubborn algae without using vacuums.

Firstly, let’s talk about algae. Algae is an aquatic plant with no stem, leaves, or roots. Moisture is a true friend of algae, and it grows exponentially under suitable conditions. The most common type of algae you will see in your pool is a green one. It is not harmful to humans, but it destroys the whole look of the swimming pool. 

It can start spreading if there is poor circulation of water. The pool filter or pump gets clogged due to debris. And that can be the reason for the poor circulation of water. Also, it can overgrow if the water temperature remains high for an extended period. Low chlorine levels or high ph levels can make a good excuse for the algae to take over the pool.  

Algae can start growing from the very first day. It is better to start working as soon as you observe cloudy water. Otherwise, it will take effort to clean it from each corner of the swimming area. You need to take action when you see the following.

• Cloudy water 
• Discoloration of water
• Green substance on the walls and corners

Having a specific vacuum for your swimming pool will definitely save a lot of time and energy, but if you are not willing to buy one, we have three easy-to-do methods to get rid of pool algae. Let us go through the procedure.

Before going into super cleaning mode, ensure to do the following tasks. It will reduce the hassle and time.

You have to clean the filter as it can get blocked with dirt and debris. When it stops working, the water quality in the pool remains compromised and causes problems. Therefore, it is crucial to clean the filter before pool cleaning. You just have to turn it off and scrub off the debris with the help of a brush. If you still see the dirt, you can use a garden hose to wash it thoroughly. 

Same as filters, if your pool pump is not working correctly. The freshwater circulation stops that resulting in problems. The pool pump impeller starts making noises if it gets clogged. Also, less water flow is the indication for a faulty pump. Turn off the pump and take off the lid of the pump basket. After that, remove the pump basket. So that you can work on the pump impeller. Clear the debris with fingers or any wire-like object by reaching into the opening of the impeller. Once it is free from debris, put back the basket and its lid. Now you have to fill it with water to prime the pump. You can use a garden hose for doing so.

Balancing the pool water PH level is necessary. You can balance PH levels by testing the pool water and adjusting it accordingly. Using a test strip kit is a usual method and an easy one. Simply take sample water from the pool and dip the test strip in it. You can take it out quickly as there is no need to wait for complete absorption. Let it rest in the air for 15 seconds. Match the results with the given chart on the instructions manual of test strips. Now you can adjust the water PH level accordingly.

Before giving your pool any chemical treatment, make sure to manually scrape off the algae from the pool walls. You can use a brush with a long pole, so you can easily reach difficult areas. The type of brush you will use totally depends on the pool surface you own. Consider having a steel brush for concrete pools and a nylon brush for pools with a vinyl surface. Go down in the pool and start scraping off the algae. Make sure to clean the stairs and corners carefully. This way, chemical treatment will be highly effective for the algae.

Using algaecides instead of vacuums is an effective way to eliminate algae from the pool. Generally, you will see various algae types such as yellow algae, green algae, black algae, etc. Each one has different intensities, textures, and nature. Therefore, there are different types of algaecides available in the market for different types of algae. 

For best results, choose algaecide accordingly. First of all, turn on the pump for proper circulation of water. Use the product according to the pool size. If you have around 10,000 gallons pool, use 16 ounces of algaecide. Leave it for about 12 hours with a running pump. You will be amazed by the results.

The lower chlorine level in the pool water is a perfect blooming condition for algae. Using shock products in this situation will work wonders. A higher chlorine ratio in water will kill the algae, and you can enjoy your clean pool all season long. Follow the procedure below.

First, wear protective goggles and gloves to avoid irritation. Take a bucket with five litres of water and add one pound of calcium hypochlorite pool shock. 

Apply this mixture to the pool or the affected areas. Wait approximately 7 to 8 hours while keeping the pool filter open.

Doing this at night will increase the effectiveness of treatment. Additionally, you have to double the quantity of the product if you have excessive algae growth in the pool. 

As previously stated, you have to use a brush to remove the algae from the pool walls. To get to hard-to-reach areas, you can use a garden hose. 

Now, for pools having filters, it will be easier to remove loosened algae. Simply open the filter and keep the water running. 

For pools without filters, you have to use a dustpan to remove clumps of algae. Clean the pool and run the water.

Do not stress yourself for not having a vacuum to do the job. Simply follow any one of the above three methods to remove algae and clean the pool.