If you made the decision to install a salt water chlorinator in your pool, well done. It’s an excellent way to keep a steady and even dose of chlorine in your water and ensuring that your water is a lot gentler on swimmers.

No system is perfect though, especially when it comes to the constant battle against algae. So, if you’re having a busy swimming season so far and your pool is looking a little cloudy then you’ll want to know how to treat your salt water pool.

Salt water pool treatment 

The main difference between a salt water chlorination system and regular chlorine tablets is how the chemicals are administered. Chlorine in a bottle or a box comes ready-mixed and is usually dispensed in floating devices. Salt chlorinators change the water as it passes through the filtration system and changes it chemically from salt water into chlorine. 

Either way, your pool is getting a dose of chlorine which is your main ally in the algae war.

If your pool is experiencing lots of bodies as it would at the height of summer, then the chances of an algae bloom are high. In this case, a good preventative measure would be to increase the chlorine output for 24 hours and let the chemicals do their work. A weekly schedule of super chlorination is likely on your to-do list anyway, right?

As with any pool, treating an algae bloom requires a bit of elbow grease and a plan. Scrubbing down the walls, floor, and steps with a hard pool brush followed by a good vacuum is your starting point. Be sure to set the pump to backwash though so we can get rid of all those lurgies. 

Shock treatment will depend on the type of algae you’re up against. A cloudy green pool will need a double-dose, whereas a serious swampy green pool will certainly need a triple shock. Mustard or black algae? You’re in four a major 4x shock treatment. 

Chat with your local pool specialists who can help you with the challenges of treating algae in your salt water pool. Call Pool Spa now.