Trees like oaks, elms, and pines can create a lot of pollen blooms that can fall into your pool water. This may cause your pool to take on a yellow or greenish hue.
The difference between pollen and algae is that algae will stick to the pool walls while pollen will collect on the surface. If left untreated, pollen dust can affect your pool’s chemistry and even cause staining over long periods of time. It can look yellow but sometimes appears white.
For help fighting pollen, we recommend Ultimate Water Clarifier. This all-natural clarifier will coagulate the organic materials in the pool regardless of size, including pollen. After the clarifier has bound these small pollen particles together, your pool filtration system will do the rest, making these particles large enough to filter out. Use a vacuum or automatic pool cleaner to clear up anything that settles on the bottom, then brush the tile and water line to loosen up any stuck-on pollen.
Suncoast Natural Pool Enzyme is another great product to use. It oxidizes organic contaminants to improve water clarity and efficiency of your chemicals and filter.
One of the best tools to remove pollen from your pool is a fine mesh skimmer net. This type of skimmer will collect extremely small particles and should help pick up most pollen. Skimming your pool a few times a day will help immensely. You may need to run your pump more than normal during periods when pollen is heaviest. This will help your filter pick up as much debris as possible. Be sure that your pool is balanced, including the chlorine levels.
Be sure to check your filter’s pressure gauge and clean the cartridge filter elements or backwash your sand or D.E. filter when the pressure reads 10 psi over the normal operating level. You can also use a skimmer basket liner to help catch pollen before it reaches your filter.
The most effective tactic is to install a pool cover whenever you are not using your pool during Springtime. This will cover the entire surface of your pool and prevent pollen from getting in. As a bonus, it will also help your pool to retain heat. A screen may also help. While you can’t stop pollen from forming, you can prevent it from becoming a problem for your pool.
If you have addtional questions about which products are right for you, contact your local Pinch A Penny pool care expert.
