Top 5 Tips for Preventing Algae in Your Pool
A sparkling, clear pool is everyone’s backyard dream — but algae growth can quickly turn that dream into a green-tinted nightmare. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just got your new pool fire-up finished, preventing algae is one of the most important parts of keeping your water clean, safe, and inviting.
At SNF Pools, we help homeowners in West Palm Beach, Palm Beach County, Broward County, St Lucie County and beyond keep their pools algae-free with professional maintenance and practical tips.
Here are the Top 5 Tips for Algae Prevention that every pool owner should know.
(1) Maintain Proper Pool Water Chemistry
Algae thrive when your water chemistry is out of balance. The key elements to monitor regularly are:
Chlorine levels
pH balance
Total alkalinity
Calcium hardness
When these are within the right ranges, algae have a much harder time taking hold.
Target ranges for healthy pool water:
Chlorine: 2.0–4.0 ppm
pH: 7.4–7.6
Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
Consistent testing and adjustment — preferably weekly — helps prevent conditions where algae can flourish. Our weekly pool service includes professional chemical testing and adjustments to keep your water in perfect harmony.
(2) Keep Water Circulating and Filtered
Stagnant water is algae’s best friend. Proper circulation ensures sanitizer gets everywhere in your pool and prevents pockets of warm, still water where algae spores can settle and grow.
What you should do:
Run your pool pump daily for 6-8 hours — especially in hot weather
Ensure all return jets are directed to promote circulation
Clean or replace your filter regularly
A dirty or clogged filter can’t remove tiny particles or distribute chemicals effectively, leaving you vulnerable to algae outbreaks. After a new pool start-up or fire-up, your filter often becomes full of plaster dust and should be replaced for optimal performance.
(3) Brush your Pool Regularly
Even with balanced chemistry and great circulation, algae can attach to pool surfaces and hide in corners or steps. Routine brushing and vacuuming are essential to break up early algae growth before it becomes a problem.
🔹 Brushing helps by:
Dislodging algae spores from walls and floors
Exposing them to sanitizer
Preventing buildup in low-circulation areas
We recommend brushing your pool at least once per week — more often if the pool sees heavy use or after heavy rains.
(4) Use Algaecide as a Preventative Tool
In addition to chlorine, using an algaecide on a regular schedule boosts your defense against algae. While chlorine kills algae once it’s present, algaecide can prevent spores from ever taking hold.
✔ Add algaecide when:
The pool is first opened
After heavy rain or wind (which can blow algae into your pool)
If you live in a warm, humid climate like South Florida
Our SNF Pools technicians choose the right type and amount of algaecide based on your pool’s size and usage — another benefit of professional weekly service.
(5) Protect from Debris and Environmental Triggers
Algae spores often hitch a ride on organic debris: leaves, grass clippings, pollen, and even dust from landscaping. Keeping your pool clean from this material reduces the food source that encourages algae growth.
📍 How to reduce algae triggers:
Skim the surface daily for leaves and debris
Keep landscaping trimmed back from the pool area
Run your skimmer and pump after storms
Use a pool cover when not in use
A clean pool surface means fewer nutrients for algae, which helps the sanitizer you’re using do its job more efficiently.
Why Professional Pool Service Helps Prevent Algae
Algae prevention isn’t a one-time job — it’s a systematic process that requires consistent testing, maintenance, and attention to detail. At SNF Pools, our weekly pool service includes:
✔ Advanced water chemistry testing
✔ Filter cleaning or replacement guidance
✔ Brushing and vacuuming
✔ Algaecide scheduling when needed
✔ Detailed digital reports so you know exactly what’s being done
Our technicians are experienced in identifying conditions that can lead to algae outbreaks before they happen — saving you time, money, and frustration.
Conclusion: Keep Algae Out Before It Comes In. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Preventing algae doesn’t have to be complicated — it just requires a proactive strategy and consistent care. Follow these 5 tips and partner with a dedicated pool service team like SNF Pools to keep your water clear, balanced, and beautiful all season long.