So, you walked out to your pool this morning, chest puffed with pride, thinking your maintenance skills are flawless. You’ve got the chlorine tablets floating, the water looking decent, and the pump running for a few hours each day. Then your eyes land on it.
A black spot. Sitting there like it owns the place.
If you’re thinking, “Eh, I’ll brush it later,” let me be brutally honest: that’s how black algae wins.
Mistake #1: Brushing Like You’re Just Ticking a Box
Black algae is not your average guest. It roots into your pool walls like it paid rent. A lazy swipe with a pool brush won’t even faze it.
Simple Fix:
- Use a stiff pool brush made for plaster or concrete surfaces.
- Brush until your arms burn, focusing on every inch of the dark spot.
- Repeat daily for a week. Black algae needs commitment to evict.
Mistake #2: Pretending Chlorine Levels Are “Probably Fine”
Guess what black algae thrives in? Inconsistent chlorine. If you’re adding chlorine whenever you feel like it without testing, you’re basically inviting it to move in.
Simple Fix:
- Test your water at least twice a week.
- Keep your chlorine at recommended levels consistently.
- Shock the pool after scrubbing the algae to break down its defenses.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Your Filter Like It’s Self-Cleaning
Black algae loves still, dirty water. If your filter is clogged or underperforming, you’re giving algae a safe haven.
Simple Fix:
- Backwash your filter if you have sand or DE.
- Clean your cartridge filter thoroughly.
- Run your pump at least 8–12 hours a day during treatment.
Mistake #4: Forgetting That Algaecide Exists
If you think chlorine alone is enough, think again. Black algae laughs at your single-layer defense.
Simple Fix:
- Use an algaecide formulated specifically for black algae.
- Follow the dosage carefully and keep brushing to expose the roots.
Your Black Algae Battle Checklist
- Brush aggressively every day.
- Test water and keep chlorine at proper levels.
- Backwash or clean the filter.
- Run the pump long enough for proper circulation.
- Apply algaecide and shock after heavy brushing.
That black spot isn’t a suggestion, it’s a warning. If you stay consistent with this routine, your pool will stop feeling like it’s judging you and start looking like you actually know what you’re doing.
