Jordan Hidalgo Largo FL - How to Keep Your Pool Algae Free During Hot Summer Weather Months

 Summer is prime swimming season — sunshine, warm weather, and long days make your pool the perfect escape. But with higher temperatures and increased usage comes a common and frustrating enemy: algae. Algae blooms can quickly turn a sparkling pool into a murky green mess, especially during hot, humid months.

Jordan Hidalgo of Largo, FL, brings you a practical guide to keeping your pool algae-free all summer long. Whether you're a new pool owner or a seasoned swimmer, these tips will help you maintain crystal-clear water throughout the hottest days.

🌿 Understanding Algae in Your Pool

Algae are microscopic plant-like organisms that thrive in warm, nutrient-rich water. There are several types that can infest a swimming pool:

• Green algae – the most common, turns water green and cloudy.

• Yellow/mustard algae – appears as yellow dust along pool walls and floor.

• Black algae – stubborn and difficult to remove; grows in concrete or plaster pools.

What causes algae?

• Poor water circulation

• Inadequate sanitation (chlorine too low)

• Warm temperatures

• Poor filtration

• Unbalanced pH and chemical levels

• Organic contaminants (leaves, body oils, sweat, etc.)

🌞 Why Algae Flourishes in Summer

Hot weather creates the perfect conditions for algae to grow. UV rays reduce chlorine effectiveness, swimmers introduce contaminants, and warm water speeds up biological activity.

The key to control?
Proactive maintenance, consistent chemistry, and proper cleaning.

✅ 1. Maintain Proper Chlorine Levels

Chlorine is your pool’s main line of defense against algae. During the summer, it’s important to test and adjust chlorine levels daily.

• Ideal chlorine range: 1.0 – 3.0 ppm

• Consider using stabilized chlorine or a chlorine stabilizer (cyanuric acid) to prevent chlorine from burning off too quickly in the sun.

• Shock your pool weekly, especially after rain or heavy use.

🔹 Jordan’s Tip: “Always shock your pool in the evening when the sun is down — it helps the chlorine work more effectively overnight.”

🧪 2. Keep Your Pool Water Balanced

A well-balanced pool keeps chlorine working at its best and prevents algae from forming. Test the water 2–3 times a week and maintain:

• pH: 7.2 – 7.6

• Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm

• Calcium hardness: 200 – 400 ppm

• Cyanuric acid (stabilizer): 30 – 50 ppm

When pH is too high, chlorine becomes less effective, allowing algae to thrive.

💧 3. Run Your Pool Pump Longer in Hot Weather

Circulation is essential. If water isn’t moving, it’s a breeding ground for algae.

• Run your pool pump 10–12 hours a day during summer months.

• Make sure jets are aimed for proper water movement across the entire pool.

• Clean skimmer baskets and pump strainer regularly.

🔹 Jordan’s Tip: “Dead zones — like corners and behind ladders — are algae hotspots. Point your return jets to circulate those hard-to-reach areas.”

🧼 4. Brush and Vacuum Frequently

Algae loves to cling to pool walls, steps, and corners. Brushing disturbs the spores before they can bloom.

• Brush walls, floor, and steps 2–3 times per week

• Use a pool vacuum to remove debris, especially after storms or high swimmer load

• Consider using an automatic pool cleaner to help with daily maintenance

🌬️ 5. Keep Your Pool Free of Debris

Leaves, dirt, pollen, and other debris feed algae and lower chlorine levels.

• Skim the pool daily

• Clean the skimmer and pump baskets weekly

• Trim overhanging trees and avoid planting shrubs too close to the pool

🧽 6. Clean or Backwash Your Filter

A dirty filter won't trap algae spores or circulate water effectively.

• Backwash sand and DE filters when pressure rises 8–10 PSI above normal.

• Clean cartridge filters with a hose and filter cleaner every few weeks.

• Replace filters when they become worn or ineffective.

🧴 7. Use an Algaecide — the Right Way

Algaecides can provide extra protection, especially during heat waves or heavy use periods.

• Use a preventative algaecide weekly (choose one compatible with your chlorine system)

• Do not overuse — too much can cause foaming or cloudy water

🔹 Jordan’s Tip: “Algaecide is like insurance — it’s not your main defense but adds peace of mind during peak summer heat.”

⚠️ 8. After the Rain, Act Fast

Storms bring contaminants and dilute chlorine levels.

• Test and shock your pool immediately after heavy rainfall

• Remove debris quickly

• Rebalance pH and chlorine

🏊 9. Limit Contamination from Swimmers

Swimmers add sweat, body oils, sunscreen, and more — all of which feed algae.

• Encourage rinsing off before swimming

• Limit food, drinks, and pets near the pool

• Keep pool use balanced with maintenance

💡 Final Thoughts from Jordan Hidalgo, Largo FL

“Hot summer weather doesn’t have to mean green water,” says Jordan Hidalgo. “By staying on top of water balance, brushing, and proper circulation, you can enjoy a sparkling pool all season.”

Algae prevention isn’t just about adding more chemicals — it’s about consistent, smart care. With these steps, you’ll save time, money, and avoid the hassle of emergency cleanups during prime swimming season.