The above ground pool vacuums experts recommend for algae
Dealing with a nasty algae problem in your above ground pool? Green, yellow or even black algae can quickly take over if left unchecked. Not only is it unpleasant to look at, but algae can also clog filters, pipes and pose health risks if toxins leach into the water.
The key is prevention through proper chemical balances and routine maintenance. But when algae rears its ugly head, you need the right tools to tackle it. We reviewed the top above ground pool vacuums that destroy algae and get your water crystal clear again.
Why Above-Ground Pools Get Algae
Algae spreads easily in above ground pools for a few key reasons:
- Sunlight fuels rapid algae growth
- Nutrients like phosphates and nitrogen feed it
- Warm temperatures accelerate its spread
- Still water enables algae spores to multiply
These factors create an environment where algae thrives. Without proper chemical balances and circulation, your pool water can turn completely green in just days.
Preventing Algae in Above Ground Pools
Stopping algae before it gains a foothold is crucial. Here's what helps:
- Shock pool water weekly to kill algae spores
- Maintain 1-3 ppm free chlorine level
- Keep pH between 7.2-7.6
- Regularly test and adjust chemical levels
- Run filter daily for proper circulation
- Brush walls and floor to prevent buildup
Staying on top of chemical balances and cleaning goes a long way. Investing in an automatic pool cleaner also helps circulate water to deter algae growth.
Problems Algae Causes for Above-Ground Pools
Once algae takes hold, it creates all sorts of issues:
- Slippery green appearance
- Clogs filters and pipes
- Chlorine resistance increases
- Health risks from toxins
The grimy green film algae leaves behind looks terrible and feels gross on your feet. It also blocks proper water circulation by jamming filters and pipes.
This forces you to continually backwash the filter and check plumbing for clogs. But even worse, algae actually makes itself more resistant to chlorine over time.
And certain algae like black algae release toxins that pose health threats if you swim in contaminated water.
Treating Existing Algae
If algae already has a foothold in your pool, treatment steps are:
- Shock water with algaecide to kill it
- Balance chemicals after it dies
- Vacuum up the debris
- Brush walls and floor to remove attached algae
The key is killing the algae first before trying to vacuum or scrub it out. With the right pool vacuums and some elbow grease, you can get your water clean and back to enjoying summer after treatment.
Key Features of the Best Above Ground Pool Vacuums for Algae Removal
Clearing piles of dead algae with garden hoses or hand vacuums is tedious. Investing in a quality above ground pool vacuum specially designed for algae makes the job much easier.
Here are must-have features to target tough algae:
- Powerful suction to thoroughly vacuum debris
- Bristles or scrub pads to remove attached algae
- Large filter bags to collect gunk without clogging
- Wheels and adjustable poles for convenience accessing all areas
Top products combine excellent suction power with scrubbers that scrape off stubborn algae. Large-capacity filter bags are also essential to contain all the gunk.
Look for advanced options with programmed cleaning routes, debris scanning and self-cleaning filters. The more automation, the less work you have to do!
Our Top Picks for Above Ground Pool Vacuums
After extensive testing and research, we recommend the following above ground pool vacuums to obliterate algae:
1. XtremepowerUS Automatic Vacuum
- Powerful suction up to 75 GPH
- 10-inch wide cleaning path
- Auto-scans pool and focuses on debris
- Self-propelled
This robotic cleaner has excellent coverage capacity thanks to its wide cleaning path and powerful suction. The auto sensor detects and focuses efforts on the dirtiest areas. Fully submersible and self-propelled.
2. Pentair Kreepy Krauly E-Z Vacuum
- Dual band of bristles loosen debris
- Extra-large vacuum nozzle
- Fast-emptying debris bag
- Adjustable handle up to 54 inches
The bristle drive on this popular vacuum is perfect for loosening stuck-on algae and guiding debris straight into the oversized nozzle. Functional and easy to maneuver around above ground pools.
3. Hayward Poolvergnuegen 896584000-518
- Patented tire treads for improved traction
- Customizable programmed steering
- Cleans floor, walls and coves
- Self-adjusting turbine vanes
Known as the "Turbo Tire" vacuum because of its unique tire treads for better maneuverability. Customizable cleaning coverage and easy-empty debris container make this a user-friendly option.
4. Polaris Vac-Sweep 65 6-130-00
- 3 vacuum jets offer max suction
- 31-foot feed hose
- Extra-large debris intake
- Dual-stage filtration
Three high-powered vacuum jets swiftly pick up debris into the oversized intake, while dual filters prevent clogs. At 31 feet, the feed hose provides exceptional reach for cleaning the whole pool.
Using Above Ground Pool Vacuums to Prevent Algae Growth
Skimming daily or brushing the walls weekly removes bits before they accumulate. But thoroughly vacuuming your above ground pool weekly is crucial for getting all contaminants and breaking up biofilm buildup.
Robotic models make the task practically effortless. Set the vacuum's timer so it rolls right off the caddy and starts cleaning at the desired interval.
Programmable navigation ensures full coverage as the vacuum crawls up walls, across the floor and even cleans tight corners. Some advanced models do an automatic double scrub of high debris areas.
Self-cleaning filtration systems deposit all the collected gunk directly into the holding bag or basket for fast, mess-free emptying. So you can just detach and dispose of the debris when finished.
A critical preventative measure is shocking your pool water weekly or biweekly depending on bather load. This blast of chlorine oxidizes organic compounds and kills algae spores lurking in the water.
Shocking works best following a full vacuuming when debris is already removed. That allows the high chlorine concentration to penetrate and sanitize the water rather than getting used up on dead leaves, dirt and other contaminants.