Best/cheapest/easily found algaecide..

[pitguy3]

I know this has probably been asked a gazillion times, but my search function doesn't work for some reason...

What is the best/cheapest/most easily found algaecide available? My numbers look great with my CC at 5-6 and my free CC at 0 but I have a little bit of algae trying to form...

TIA!!

 

[Patrick_B]

There is none better than liquid Chlorine/Bleach. Not for the money or effectiveness. Some though, will have ingredients you don't want like Copper. Bleach has none of the bad side effects, and properly maintained, it will never let you down.

How are you testing and maintaining the pool?

 

[pitguy3]

I have a TF-100 test kit that I've been using. I haven't had to SLAM my pool yet this year due to the Free CC at zero.. Do you think that will help?

 

[JohnT]

You seem to be confused about terms:

CC=Combined Chlorine

This is the chlorine that is in the process of sanitizing the pool. If you have more than about 0.5ppm, you have an issue.

FC=Free Chlorine

This is the good stuff that is available to clean up anything that gets in the pool.


If you have algae, your chlorine is either too low for your CYA level, or has been allowed to get too low recently. Without knowing your CYA level there is no way to know how your chlorine level measures up.

 

[pitguy3]

My CYA level is about 65-70. You are correct.. I had them backwards. I try to keep my FC at 5 or 6. Ideal would be 8. My CC's have been at zero for a while and are currently at zero..

 

[jblizzle]

Sounds like you let the FC get a little too low.

With visible algae you need to follow the SLAM Process process until you pass the 3 criteria to stop.

You do not need algaecide.

 

[pitguy3]

Good deal... I was under the impression that you really only needed to SLAM if your CC's got too high. I will start my SLAM hopefully tonight or tomorrow.

 

[jblizzle]

You need to SLAM if there is ever any problem in the pool: high CC, algae, cloudy water (likely due to algae), etc.

 

[Patrick_B]

Good deal... I was under the impression that you really only needed to SLAM if your CC's got too high. I will start my SLAM hopefully tonight or tomorrow.

Excellent! Let us know if you have any questions.

 

[pitguy3]

OK I have one... LOL!! My TA is at 70 and my PH is at 7.8... Should I get these in check prior to slamming?

 

[Marlahoutex]

Have you read this? Pool School - SLAM - Shock Level And Maintain

 

[pitguy3]

Yes I have... Doesn't mention TA though.. That was my main question.

 

[Marlahoutex]

Check and adjust the PH to between 7.2 and 7.5. The PH test isn't reliable during SLAMing so make sure to take care of this before.