Have you got pink algae growing in your pool or hot tub? Yes, we said ‘pink’, and it can be a real problem.

What is Pink Algae?

So what exactly is this unusual looking algae? Well, this slime like material is bacteria that bonds to the plastic PVC elements in your pool, such as filters, skimmer baskets and pool toys. The name is slightly misleading, as it technically isn’t an algae, but is caused by the genus methylobacterium. It is pink though. This colour comes from the pigmentation in its cells.

The slime is what protects the bacteria from external elements and helps it to grow and expand in your pool. Methane in the air is consumed by the bacterium which will also strengthen it. It is usually accompanied by an infestation of the unpleasant white water mould, which is a naturally occurring fungus.

If you’re not sure if you have pink algae in your pool, check and see if there are spots or streaks in your pool. These usually form in the corners or crevices and are a dead giveaway.

Treating Pink Algae

Pink algae is very resilient and is hard to get rid of, and therefore it is better to try and prevent it if possible. To keep pink algae away clean your plastic pool elements weekly and use a water treatment product. You may also want to expose these elements to sunshine on a regular basis – pink algae likes dark spaces and stagnant water.

Make sure to keep your pool clear of leaves and other plant debris as the methane, created when these plants decompose will encourage the bacteria.

Halogen-based products, such as chlorine or bromine, and germicides are pretty useless against pink algae. And therefore can manifest even if you regularly treat your pool. As a result, pink algae can only be removed with some good old fashioned elbow grease.

If you’ve passed the prevention stage, use algaecide and a shock treatment after to make sure the bacteria is completely destroyed. Then run water through the filter and other elements until it runs clear. You’ll also want to deep clean, or maybe even throw away pool toys and floatation devices as not to reintroduce the bacteria into the water.

Be aware! If the algae is more of a purple shade than a pink, you have something else called purple cyanurate. And this will not be removed by brushing or scrubbing.

If you have pink algae in your swimming pool, don’t worry. Here at Online Pool Chemicals we have plenty of different algaecides to choose from. And an algae guard should stop it coming back anytime soon.

If you have any further questions about pink algae or any other form of pool growth, feel free to get in contact!