The perfect algacide

Nathan Johnson · 2025-04-26T00:12:19-0400

I've run into a big problem with copper algacide and its opened up my eyes. I don't want to stain and add unwanted metals to my pools. I don't want algae either. What is an effective algacide that doesn't have problematic metals? I've relied on pool rx and swimtrine for most of my successful algae treatment, now I'm experiencing metals issues (draining, staining) and curious what everyone is using. Ive had some success with bromine salts and 'poly 60' but seems like it takes an awful lot of those to keep algae at bay.

PoolStored · 2025-04-26T00:15:00-0400

Nathan Johnson said:
What is an effective algacide that doesn't have problematic metals?

Maintaining proper FC based on CYA levels ensures you will not get algae. We don't recommend algaecides as routine maintenance.
Always follow this and you won't experience algae...Link-->FC/CYA Levels

Pool Rx contains copper sulfate. Copper causes staining. Sulfates can cause damage to plaster, concrete and metals.
Swimtrine contains copper, which causes staining.
Both, no bueno for el poolo.

Algaecide - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

Nathan Johnson · 2025-04-26T00:42:17-0400

If I wanted a preventative algacide, what might you recommend? There are pools I care for that have some degree of volatility where one would help. What do you use to treat an algal bloom? Mustard? Green? BLACK!? As stated I need to veer away from metal based products.

PoolStored · 2025-04-26T00:48:25-0400

Nathan Johnson said:
If I wanted a preventative algacide, what might you recommend? There are pools I care for that have some degree of volatility where one would help. What do you use to treat an algal bloom? Mustard? Green? BLACK!? As stated I need to veer away from metal based products.

There is no "preventative algaecide." There is proper chlorination. That is the ONLY way to avoid algae. Folow this...Link--> FC/CYA Levels
If you have an "algae bloom" the only treatment is the SLAM process. Link--->SLAM Process
If you have Mustard algae, you need to treat with SLAM, then, and only then, the mustard treatment...Link-->Mustard Algae
Black algae? Check this out...Link-->Some thoughts and questions on black algae control
Algaecide is not the solution to any of these problems...

I suggest you dip into the deep end of pool water chemistry:

Pool Water Chemistry

This thread presents my findings so far on pool water chemistry including the following: More Accurate Calcite Saturation Index (CSI) to replace Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) Calculation of ppm HOCl (disinfecting chlorine) at various levels of Total Free Chlorine (FC) and Cyanuric Acid (CYA)...