What is Yellow Algae & What To Do About It?

Algae is a common problem in many backyard swimming pools and usually comes about as a result of poor pool maintenance, cleaning, and water sanitation. 

Algae is a type of organism that thrives in warm, wet conditions – making your pool a potential breeding ground if you’re not careful. 

While algae is relatively harmless in most cases, if left untreated it can be damaging to your pool’s structure and its aesthetics.

There is a wide range of different algae organisms, and in this article we will concentrate on yellow algae, explaining what it is and what can be done to tackle it.

What is yellow algae?

Mustard algae, closely related to green algae, can appear yellowish, yellow-green, or brown and often has a slimy texture. It is frequently mistaken for dirt or sand but stubbornly clings to pool surfaces, light fixtures, wall fittings, ladders, and other pool accessories like toys or swimsuits. 

Yellow algae is often found in hotter climates, like here in Texas, especially if your home is located near rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water. 

Unfortunately, yellow algae is chlorine-resistant, meaning it can be much harder to eliminate compared to other algae types. With this in mind, early identification and treatment are essential to prevent the algae from spreading – something Backyard Paradise Luxury Pools can assist with.

Differences between yellow and green algae

As mentioned above, green and yellow algae are related. 

Despite this, there are some key differences between the two.

While they have similar chemical properties, green algae needs sunlight to thrive whereas yellow algae can grow in even the darkest corners of your pool’s walls.

But, perhaps the biggest difference between the two algae types is that yellow algae is chlorine-resistant, making it harder to eradicate than green algae. 

How to treat yellow algae

If you’ve noticed yellow algae in your pool, it’s important you act as soon as possible to prevent the problem from spreading. 

There are a number of ways you can treat yellow algae including:

1. Thorough cleaning

You’ll need to thoroughly wash and clean everything that has come into contact with the algae including bathing suits, pool equipment, toys, and flotation devices.

2. Remove the algae

Using a brush, you should loosen any algae in the pool and then vacuum it away. 

3. Address water chemistry

You should ensure your pool’s water chemistry is at the right levels. For pH, this should be between 7 and 7.6, between 60 ppm and 120 ppm for alkalinity, and between 1.0 ppm and 3.0 ppm for chlorine. 

4. Shock the water

While yellow algae is chlorine-resistant, shocking the pool’s water can help get rid of it. The process of shocking involves adding more chlorine to the pool than is usually needed, and this can get rid of persistent or stubborn yellow algae. This process can also be repeated until the water chemistry is back to the appropriate level.

The best way to prevent yellow algae from growing in your pool is by organizing regular pool maintenance or pool cleaning courtesy of Backyard Paradise Luxury Pools. Our weekly service will take this burden off your hands, so you can enjoy the benefits your pool brings without having to worry about any of the maintenance. 

If you’ve noticed yellow algae in your pool or simply want to arrange regular maintenance to prevent it from growing, get in touch with Backyard Paradise Luxury Pools today. Our team of expert technicians work across The Woodlands, Spring, Montgomery, and throughout the Greater Houston area.