Is this algae?

[rbwamsley]

I posted another thread a week or so back stating that I was going to SLAM pool due to algae (See thread here). After much discussion and an OCLT which produced a result of 0.5ppm it was decided a SLAM might not be needed.

On to this week... I see what I think is algae appearing, yesterday. Same as I had a couple of weeks ago. This time I decided to record a video.

Algae Video

So is this algae?

 

[Rancho Cost-a-Lotta]

Yes. If it's clinging to the sides of the pool in the shaded areas, it is likely a mustard algae.

 

[Mdragger88]

Definitely. Pollen will settle on the floor & scum up the waterline but doesn’t collect on the wall like that.
Regardless of Overnight Chlorine Loss Test result- visible algae = SLAM Process
If you think it’s Mustard Algea
You complete the regular SLAM Process then proceed w/ mustard algae protocol

Mustard Algae

Today We are going to show you how you can get rid of mustard algae in your pool. By following the steps in this guide and with no expensive chemicals.

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[rbwamsley]

@Rancho Cost-a-Lotta and @Mdragger88, Thanks!

On to my next question. How do I know how long to SLAM for if I'm already meeting all three of the criteria that says my SLAM can be over?

 

[Rancho Cost-a-Lotta]

Have you done a SLAM since you found the algae? Your pool logs don't show SLAM FC levels. One criteria for passing is the no visible algae.

I can't give you a "TFP expert" answer, but I can speak from experience.

I had one case of mustard algae last summer. I had my pool covered in mid-summer and had issues with my previous SWG and inconsistent chlorine production. I uncovered the pool and found a few patches of MA on the walls. I bumped up to SLAM level for two days then mustard algae SLAM level for 24 hours. I brushed several times, kept the pump running, and tried to find all places algae could be hiding. No issues since.

 

[Mdragger88]

One of the criteria is crystal clear water- that means no visible algae.
If u brush & see poofs of algae or dead algae on the floor- slam continues.

 

[rbwamsley]

Have you done a SLAM since you found the algae? Your pool logs don't show SLAM FC levels. One criteria for passing is the no visible algae.

One of the criteria is crystal clear water- that means no visible algae.
If u brush & see poofs of algae or dead algae on the floor- slam continues.

I have never done a SLAM.

After brushing it takes 1-1.5 weeks for my algae to come back. Am I supposed to maintain SLAM levels for that length of time?

 

[Rancho Cost-a-Lotta]

Start with this:
SLAM Process

Followed up with elevated mustard algae levels. Read the following link:

Mustard Algae

Today We are going to show you how you can get rid of mustard algae in your pool. By following the steps in this guide and with no expensive chemicals.

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Rancho Cost-a-Lotta]

A quick tip: When testing FC at elevated SLAM levels, you can conserve reagents by using a 5mL water sample. Use one scoop of powder and each drop will count as 1ppm. You'll lose some accuracy so don't use this procedure for the overnight chlorine loss test.

 

[Mdragger88]

There’s no finite time frame for how long a slam takes. Passing the Overnight Chlorine Loss Test at slam level is a bit tougher than at target fc levels.
You have often been @ or below minimum fc level for your cya which has allowed the algae to proliferate & u are just barely keeping it at bay. It will keep coming back unless you hit it hard. As u are currently just physically removing it - not killing it.
The way to eliminate it is the SLAM Process & MA protocol followed by maintaining target fc levels for your cya to prevent anymore from ever forming in the 1st place. Barely Maintaining Minimum is playing with fire.