Introduction
Owning a swimming pool is unarguably a valuable asset for relaxation. Not only does it add beauty and aesthetics to a home, but it also improves the overall quality of life. However, it can slowly turn into a nightmare with algae on the surface of the pool. And the algae can pose a significant health risk due to poor sanitation and filtration processes. However, using the best pool cleaners for algae, will the growth of algae will be eliminated.
With automatic pool cleaners, chemicals, and other processes, swimming pools can void algae infestations. And this article provides an in-depth knowledge of the best pool cleaners for algae.
What Causes Algae in Pools?
Naturally, algae spores enter into pools all the time. Windy and rainy weather or polluted swimwear and pool equipment can carry spores into the water. Although during normal climatic conditions, an algae gloom can also occur.
Some of these conditions that increase the presence of algae in swimming pools are;
- Imbalanced water
- Low temperatures
- Excess sunlight
- Nitrates, phosphates, and carbon dioxide.
- Inadequate circulation and filtration of water
- Poor sanitation
Adverse Effects Caused by Algae in Pools
The primary issue with algae in pools is that no one would want to swim in a pool infested with algae. And defeating the primary purpose of the swimming pool, which is for pleasure and relaxation.
Also, when significant algae bloom appears on the water\’s surface, it becomes easier for new algae to occur. Having algae in pools can be dangerous, as it clouds and colours the water, making rescue attempts tough and reducing the vision of divers. Although algae are not entirely harmful, they can harbour pathogens like e-coli bacteria which causes infections in humans.
With the use of chemicals and pool equipment, the infestation of algae is reduced. Although, having poor sanitation hygiene could promote algae growth, resulting in more negative effects.
Obstructed drains
When pool drains become clogged, it makes relaxation uninteresting. Blocked drains can burn out the motor power, which would cause the pool owner to spend a massive amount of money on repairs. Therefore, it is vital to check drains to avoid unnecessary repairs.
Increases algae growth
When the water in the pool starts to appear green or has a tinge, it is likely algae have formed. The algae growth usually happens when the swimming pool is not regularly cleaned and filtered.
Leads to illness
When a pool is poorly managed and sanitised, it is easy to contact skin infections. These problems include skin reactions, eye and ear irritations, and respiratory issues. Illnesses could also arise when the bacteria buildup infects the water, causing rashes, vision, and wound infections.
Eight Highly Effective Pool Cleaners For Algae
To help you narrow down your search for the best pool cleaners, below are some of the selected and most approved pool cleaners for algae.
1. The XtremepowerUS Pool CleanerÂ
The Xtremepower cleaner is best for in-ground and above-ground swimming pools. It connects to the pool\’s suction line and helps clean its floor and walls. This pool cleaner is about 16 x 34 feet in size and is the best cleaner for a low budget. However, this primary cleaner does not have fancy features like picking up heavy debris. It performs well at routine maintenance and scrubs algae, dust, and dirt. It is crucial to have a .75 horsepower pool pump for proper execution.
Pros
- Tidies up the pool\’s floors and walls
- The best option for routine maintenance
- Cheap and budget-friendly
Cons
- It quickly gets clogged by large debris
- It requires setup
2. Zodiac Baracuda G3 Pool Cleaner
This pool cleaner performs all the tiresome cleaning of the pool\’s floor and walls. This automatic pool cleaner is a standout choice for in-ground pools, with a pool\’s skimmer that joins to the suction side pool cleaner. Ideally built with a disc level of 36, the Zodiac Baracuda is made to slide effortlessly across the top and not get glued on dirt, drains, or lights. Additionally, it has a unique feature to steer the cleaner through tight spaces, like behind the pool\’s steps.
The Baracuda is designed to perform efficiently with pumps of low speed and is furnished with a FlowKeeper valve which regulates the pool\’s water flow. This pool cleaner is the best choice for all speed pumps – small, two-speed, or variable. Whether it\’s concrete, tile, vinyl, or fibreglass, the Zodiac Baracuda is perfect for capturing large debris and dirt.
Pros
- It tidies the pool floor, wall, and stairs.
- It is built to steer through obstacles.
- It performs perfectly for all pool surfaces.
- It has a long hose for effective cleaning.
Cons
- It only works when connected to a simmer or suction line.
- It can easily break due to its lightweight.
3. Zodiac MX6 Suction Automatic Pool Cleaner
Suction pool cleaners are productive, and best keep the pool clean from algae, dirt, dust, and debris. With a pool\’s skimmer system or a vacuum wire, the Zodiac suction cleaner will span through the floors and sides of the pool, cleaning up dirt in its path.
The pool cleaner is furnished with a four belt-driven wheel and cyclonic suction engine that traps small-size and medium-sized wastes. One benefit of the suction pool cleaners is their skill in climbing on walls of the pool, providing a better clean-up to the waterline.
Pros
- Perfect for cleaning floors and walls of a pool.
- It\’s equipped with a long hose.
- This pool cleaner comes with a warranty.
Cons
- It can easily get clogged by larger debris
- It has basic features which make cleaning hard.
4. Hayward W900 Wanda the Whale Pool Cleaner
The Hayward is perfect for above-ground pools, which can be challenging to keep the water sparkling. While most in-ground pools have suction wires built to connect a pool cleaner, above-ground swimming pools generally depend on physical cleaning.
The Hayward W900 cleaner attaches to the skimmer scheme of the pool and utilises a turbine that pulls water out from the swimming pool and carries the debris into the skimmer. It is built to operate on pools measuring about 27 feet. The Hayward also utilises a SmartDrive system that navigates the cleaner through tight corners. A downside of this pool cleaner is that it cannot climb the pool walls and is strictly only for cleaning pool floors.
Pros
- Tidies pools up to 27 feet in size
- It is equipped with a long hose
- It has a simple installation
- The pool cleaner includes a warranty
Cons
- It is not built for cleaning pool walls.
- It can easily delay or clog while cleaning.
5 Hayward W3PVS20JST Poolvergnuegen Pool Cleaner
This pool cleaner is a long-standing popular choice for cleaning in-ground pools. This two-wheel-drive cleaner is perfect for pools that measure 16 to 32 feet in size. Although, a four-wheel-drive version of the Hayward is more functional for larger inground pools. Tracks of the tires allow the pool cleaner to move smoothly along the pool\’s floor and walls, yet facing obstacles like drains, debris, and lights.
The Hayward is one of the best pool cleaners for algae that weigh only five pounds, which makes it easy to carry in and from the pool. Another distinct aspect of the pool cleaner is the convertible throat plates removed to maximise suction. The pool cleaner has internal steering sequences programmed to steer its path for thorough cleaning coverage.
Pros
- Perfect for cleaning pools, floors, and walls.
- It is convenient and portable.
- Equipped with many steering sequences for cleaning
Cons
- The Hayward Poolvergnuegen is costly to purchase
6. Pentair 360042 Kreepy Krauly Pleated Seal Pool Cleaner
This pool cleaner is powerful to target algae, dirt, and waste but still soft enough for vinyl pool floors. The soft and pleated skirt on the head of the pool cleaner is not too rough on the pool\’s vinyl liner, compared to some scrubs or tires of others. This pool cleaner also maintains the simple design with the minor mobile parts, no rigs, diaphragm, or wheels.
The Kreepy Krauly depends on a dive and floating technique to steer it across the length of the vinyl floor pool. The Kreepy Krauly works efficiently for hours once connected to a pool\’s suction line or skimmer.
Pros
- It has a strict cleaning system yet is gentle enough for vinyl pools.
- Performs both cleanings for floors and walls
- It is simple and easy to install
- Includes warranty
Cons
- It must be attached to a skimmer or suction line.
7. The Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner
The Polaris model is a pressure-side pool cleaner that uses the force of clean water to lower the vacuum for cleaning, hooking the return side of the pool pump. Other types employ a different booster pump, but this pool cleaner has a sole component that easily attaches to the force line.
The Polaris Vac-Sweep is a terrific option for cleaning up leaves and dirt in the pool. It is built and equipped with a filter bag that collects large debris, like twigs, palm leaves, pebbles. The benefit of this pool cleaner is that debris and dirt are organised for easy removal instead of clogging the skimmer or pool filter. This model has a unique feature of three impulsion jets, also an all-wheel-drive technique that drives the three wheels for more productive sanitation.
Pros
- It is equipped with an in-built filter bag
- It effectively operates on all types of pools
- This model tidies pool floors and walls
- It comes with a warranty
Cons
- It needs a booster pump to function
- Its tires may toil with traction on vinyl liners
8. The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Automatic Pool Cleaner
Unlike other pool cleaners, this model does not require maximal user intervention and has powerful features. The Dolphin pool cleaner uses its power supply to move across all types of pool floors. It also climbs pool walls and scrubs up to the pool\’s surface.
With an automatic pool cleaner like this pool cleaner, a skimmer system is not required. Instead, the Dolphin Nautilus has its filter outlets which rotate between standard duty screens to collect waste and small particles.
Pros
- Can clean both floors and walls
- It does not require any setup
- It has features that act like a skimmer system
Cons
- Its unique features make it expensive to have
How Can Algae be Prevented in Pools
Adequate chemical balance and sanitiser levels in a pool will deter many chances for algae to grow. High pH levels and poor chlorine levels can also allow algae to thrive.
The pool\’s general cleaning and sanitation are crucial as organic matter, and bacteria add to algae growth. Frequent cleaning of pools is good exercise and avoids dirt from sticking in the plaster\’s pores, promoting the development of an algae colony.
Automatic Pool Cleaner
A proper filtration system helps keep the pool in good condition, which reduces the growth of algae. Most pool filters run at a stretch of 12 hours per day or longer, depending on the pool filter\’s size. Poor filtration and circulation can also thrive the growth of algae, mainly for larger pools with poor plumbing or pump size. Using an automatic pool cleaner will significantly solve the problem of poor circulation.
Using chemicals or algaecides is also suggested for backup to routine sanitation and filtration processes. To help narrow down yor search on pool cleaning chemicals, the following are the best options for protecting pools from algae.
Potassium Tetraborate
When this chemical is added to the pool water in the proper percentage, it inhibits the growth of algae, preventing it from this algae treatment chemical prevents algae from altering carbon dioxide into the fuel it needs to thrive.
Chitin
This chemical is not an algaecide, but it contains properties that prevent the growth of algae. It also solidifies impurities in the water and removes many suspended materials. And this allows the sanitiser to kill contaminants, improving the power of the filtration equipment.
Phosphate Removers
Phosphate removers reduce phosphates and nitrates from the pool, which serves as nutrients for algae. Most times, swimming pools become polluted with phosphates from fertilisers, mulching, or heavy debris loads in swimming pools.
Filter Cleaners
Filter cleaners are helpful to keep the pool filter in ultimate condition, removing oils, minerals, and metals that clog the pool filter. They are also great in killing algae to curb reinfection. Although not entirely effective in reducing algae, it traps particles that serve as food for the algae and trapping the algae itself.
Chlorine Enhancers
These chemicals are not entirely algaecides but provide a synergistic boost to pool shock and are effective for all types of algae and colours. Some chlorine enhancers have sodium bromide, and some of their formulations are ammonia-based, which acts upon all algae types.
Final thoughts
Algae in pools defeat the purpose of relaxation and recreation; however, with the best pool cleaners for algae, it inhibits the growth of algae and traps dirt, debris, and leaves, which could pose a health risk factor.