When is a Swimming Pool not a Swimming Pool . . .
When it is green!

“Pool care“, you may say?  But, surprisingly, there is little difference between a green swimming pool and a blue swimming pool.

“What then”, I hear you say, “is the difference?”

Algae

If your swimming pool has turned a distinct shade of green, then it is likely to have been overwhelmed by this tiny little terror who could drain the profits from your gîte and bank account as quickly as pulling the plug!

So, what is the cure?

Your pool may requiring cleaning at least once a day, depending on the severity of the algae build-up.  Be prepared to clean your swimming pool up to four times per day, if the water is so green that you cannot see the bottom.  Obviously, this may not be practical if your guests are in occupation and, more worrisome, if they have paid for use of your swimming pool.

Where to begin

Clean all the debris from the pool.  Add your ‘Chemical Shock’ Chlorine, daily and remember to regularly check the PH levels.  An optimum PH level should be between 7.2 and 7.6.  Once again, ensure to check the pool’s PH level each day.

Be prepared to wait between four to five days before any improvement can be seen following the shock treatment.   During this watchful waiting period, backwash your filtration system three to four times daily, rinsing for about 10 seconds before going back onto filter.  Carry out this action frequently while the pool is being cleaned.

In addition, completely scrub the swimming pool surround as algae is inclined to stick to the pool liner.  Moreover, it is important to thoroughly clean the pool’s surround to prevent slips and falls due to slippery algae encroachment and to prevent any potential claims.

Hoovering 

Slowly vacuum clean the bottom of your pool.  If you vacuum too quickly, then you may stir-up the debris which may reduce cleanliness and allow algae to proliferate.

Filtration

If after this period of time, and despite your meticulous efforts, the pool stubbornly remains green, then we suggest that you check your filtration system.  Your filtration system requires regular attention with a twice per week clean when the pool is in normal use.

Still Green!

Many cultures consider green to be unlucky, and it is certainly unlucky if the green algae inhabiting your swimming pool starts you to suffer financial loss!

Sand.  When was the last time your swimming pool’s sand was changed?  The sand may have come to the end of its filtering life, if it has managed to be overwhelmed by algae.  Therefore, be prepared to change the sand.  Remember to make a note of the sand change date in order to be better prepared to carry out your next sand change in five to seven years’ time outside of the high season.

Prevent is better than cure . . .

Swimming pools attract guests, guests represent revenue.

Your holiday home or gîte is a business, and all property-based businesses require ongoing maintenance whether due to wear and tear or environmental conditions.  Ask your property manager to undertake a regular pool care maintenance programme to avoid loss of revenue and loss of quality accommodation status.

Good luck with your pool!