Do water bugs mean algae?

[Leisure]

Current test FC 7, cc 0, ch 280, ph 7.8, TA 130, ca 50

Been through a slam 3 weeks ago. Since I have improved ca from 80 and TA from 250 to current. The lowest FC has been is 6.6. We missed a few days on brushing but not more than one day in arow. Pool is clear with only the rust stains I get from my well water on the floor and walls (getting better since opening). Today saw a large increase in water bugs. I believe backswimmers. Since slam there's been a few bugs with small increase then there would only be a few. Besides going through a slam are there any other suggestions? I've heard certain algecides or dish soap (don't know how soap effects a pools chemistry) are possible ways to kill existing ones.

 

[tim5055]

Algecides and soap are both things you do not want to introduce to your pool. No, they do not mean algae in the water.

 

[BoDarville]

The presence of water bugs (e.g., backswimmers) is not related to algae. More likely, you've just hit the time of year where their populations increase. I occasionally get a couple in my pool and I have never had algae. You can try bumping FC up to the high end of the recommended range for your CYA and/or add some borates to the pool in the range of 30-50 ppm. Those measures may reduce the number of water bugs that get into the pool but don't be surprised if you get one or two from time to time.

 

[Casey]

I get a couple every year and have borates. They are not as noticeable now.

 

[Leisure]

Thanks for the comments. I'll look into borates. Yesterday we had 100+ Bugs this morning it is well reduced. Maybe they were just passing thru and found no food source.