Depending on the severity of the problem, these pools are usually the hardest, most expensive and time consuming

to clean up ready for swimming. A pool will usually 'go green' ( that is grow visible algae) due to; neglect, sudden

weather change, inattention, or, you may have inherited someone else's problem. Some of these steps are the

same as for normal pool start up but you may require mulitple treatments to 'get it right'.

1.    Make a note for next Autumn to see us about 'winterising' the pool - this will save you lots of time and money!

2.    Take note of steps for general pool start up, but bear in mind you may not even be able to see the pool bottom.

3.    Check pump/filter baskets, check O'rings, and general filter operation prior to use. Backwash the filter prior to

       starting clean up, it is going to have to do lots of work. Top up the pool level to as high as it can handle, to

       allow for frequent backwashing etc.

       If pool has been idle for some time it is a good idea to apply 'Filter Brite' filter cleaner prior to starting, the sand

       may be stagnant.

4.    Brush pool walls and scoop out as much large debris/leaves as you can. Even if you cannot see the bottom.

       DO NOT try and vacuum these, they will only clog the filter and pump system.

5.    Turn on the pool filter and start long continuous filter runs 12-24 hours daily if required. Keep a careful eye on

       filter pressure, and baskets daily.

6.    Shock dose pool initially at double the normal rate  via the skimmer (2 or more bags per 50,000 litres) and apply Algae Killer as per label, plus use clarifying tablets to help clear the

       water if pool is cloudy. Brush pool walls and floor again to help chemicals kill algae.

       NOTE. When filtering an algae infested pool keep a careful eye on filter pressure, it will need backwashing at least daily.

       NOTE. Successive 'Shock dose' treatments may be required for really bad problem pools. Keep the chlorine level on the high side until pool clears.

       NOTE. Use pool clarifiers to assist in clearing the water - it should be now be a 'milky blue'. This is dead algae and small particles in suspension - it needs to be filtered out in most cases.

7.    Now is a good time to bring a 500ml water sample to get the pool water chemically 'balanced'. This helps pool chemicals work better.

8.    Keep filtering, backwashing, shock dosing pool as required.

9.    Once you can see whats 'down there' scoop pool again to remove large items and then vacuum the pool floor - vacuuming to 'Waste' is a good idea - this avoids blocking the filter.

       Then apply 'Filter Brite' filter cleaner to clean the filter sand.

10.  NOTE if you have no joy clearing the pool then the next step is to 'Floc' the pool - this settles particles to the bottom, which are then vacuumed to 'Waste'. See us for advice, it is not an easy job.

       Remember there is not usually a quick fix here.

11.  Generally if the pool is starting to behave then it is time to get on with a 3 STEP routine pool care programme right away. Have the pool water re tested on our water analysis lab to make sure you

       are on the right track, and see us instore for a programme to suit your pool. 

12.  Carry on with steps 11 - 17 for routine pool maintenance.

13.  "WINTERISE THE POOL NEXT YEAR!"

Your filter could be the problem - it may need servicing (that is a sand change) or it may not be up to the task.

This sort or treatent is not good for pool long term - it can damage the pool surface and equipment.

Should I empty the pool and start again? This is the very last resort. Your pool is NOT designed to be empty, liner pools may tear or collapse, any in ground pool should have the water table checked or installer consulted 1st before emptying the pool. Serious damage may occur. ASK 1st!

Prevention is cheaper then the cure.