Green-To-Clean

Green-to-Clean:

1. Initial Inspection and Assessment

• Pool Condition Assessment: The technician will first assess the overall condition of the pool, including the water color, clarity, and cleanliness. This includes inspecting the pool for:

  • Algae Growth: A green pool often indicates the presence of algae, which can range from light green (early-stage) to dark green or even black (severe).

  • Debris: Heavy debris buildup, such as leaves, twigs, dirt, and organic matter, may have contributed to algae growth.

  • Filtration System Status: The technician will inspect the pool's filtration system to ensure it’s working correctly and hasn’t been clogged by debris or algae.

2. Chemical Testing and Water Adjustment

• Testing Water Chemistry: The technician will test the pool water for the following key chemical parameters:

  • pH Levels: Imbalanced pH (either too high or too low) can hinder the effectiveness of sanitizers and cause corrosion or scaling. Ideal pH is typically 7.4 to 7.6.

  • Chlorine Levels: Chlorine is essential for disinfecting the pool and combating algae. Often, a green pool will have very low or no chlorine levels.

  • Alkalinity: Proper alkalinity levels (around 80 to 120 ppm) are important to stabilize pH and improve the overall effectiveness of chemicals.

  • Calcium Hardness: High calcium levels can lead to scaling, but very low levels can cause problems with pool equipment.

  • Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer): Cyanuric acid helps protect chlorine from UV degradation, but too much of it can cause chlorine to be less effective.

• Adjusting Water Chemistry: Based on the results of the water test, the technician will adjust the following:

  • Increase Chlorine Levels: Adding shock chlorine or super-chlorinating the pool to quickly raise the chlorine level and kill the algae. In cases of severe algae growth, algaecide may also be applied.

  • Adjust pH: If the pH is too high or low, the technician will use appropriate chemicals (such as sodium bisulfate or sodium carbonate) to bring the pH within the ideal range.

  • Increase Alkalinity: If necessary, an alkalinity increaser will be added.

  • Add Stabilizer: If the pool's stabilizer level is low, cyanuric acid may be added to protect chlorine from being broken down too quickly by sunlight.

3. Algae Treatment and Disinfection

• Algaecide Application: For a green pool, algae is the main culprit. The technician will apply a high-quality algaecide (such as copper-based or quaternary ammonium) to the pool water to kill the algae. The type and strength of the algaecide used depend on the severity of the algae bloom (e.g., green algae, black algae, or mustard algae).

• Super-Chlorination/Shocking the Pool: The technician will “shock” the pool by adding a large dose of chlorine or non-chlorine shock. This process oxidizes organic matter, including algae, bacteria, and other contaminants, and ensures the chlorine level is high enough to kill the algae. Shocking also helps break up algae clusters, making it easier for the filtration system to remove them.

• Algae Removal: After applying chemicals, the technician may need to brush the pool (especially the walls and floor) to loosen up the algae and allow the chemicals to work more effectively. This also helps expose algae to the chlorine or algaecide, ensuring thorough treatment.

4. Brushing the Pool:

• Manual Brushing: The technician will use a pool brush to scrub the walls, floor, steps, and tiles to dislodge algae, dirt, and debris. Pool algae can stick to pool surfaces, and brushing helps expose it to the chemicals for a more thorough kill. This step is especially important for preventing further algae growth and ensuring a clean, smooth surface.

  • In the case of black algae, which can form in hard-to-reach areas, extra attention is given to scrubbing the pool surface to break up the algae’s stubborn hold.

5. Vacuuming and Debris Removal

• Vacuuming the Pool: The technician will vacuum the pool to remove any algae, debris, or dead algae cells that have been loosened by the chemicals and brushing. If the pool has heavy debris, the technician may need to perform multiple passes or use a manual vacuum or automatic cleaner to ensure the pool floor is thoroughly cleaned.

  • Automatic Vacuum: If the pool has an automatic cleaner, the technician will monitor its progress to ensure it’s working correctly. In some cases, the technician may need to empty or clean the cleaner’s filter bag or basket during the service.

• Skimming and Cleaning the Pool: The technician will also use a skimmer net to remove any floating debris, such as leaves and twigs, to prevent them from sinking and becoming additional sources of organic matter that may contribute to algae growth.

6. Filtration System Check

• Filter Cleaning: The pool’s filter system (whether it’s a sand, cartridge, or DE filter) plays a critical role in removing algae and debris. The technician will inspect the filter and backwash (for sand filters) or clean (for cartridge or DE filters) to remove any trapped algae and debris. This ensures the filter continues to function effectively and removes particles that can cloud the water.

• Pump Inspection: The technician will inspect the pump and circulation system to ensure there are no blockages, and the pump is running at the correct speed to circulate the pool water effectively.

7. Water Clarifier and Algae Prevention

• Clarifying the Water: After algae has been killed and removed, the technician may apply a pool clarifier to help clear the water by binding small particles together, allowing them to be captured by the filter.

• Preventative Algaecide: To prevent future algae growth, a preventative algaecide may be added. This will inhibit algae from regrowing, especially if the pool is exposed to sunlight or high organic content.

8. Final Water Testing and Adjustment

• Re-testing Water Chemistry: After the chemicals have had time to work, the technician will re-test the pool’s water to ensure that the chemical levels are within the ideal ranges. This includes testing for:

  • Chlorine Levels: Ensuring they are within the proper range (1.0 to 3.0 ppm) after shocking the pool.

  • pH: Ensuring the pH is within the range of 7.4 to 7.6.

  • Alkalinity and Calcium Hardness: Ensuring the levels are balanced to avoid corrosion or scaling.

• Final Adjustments: The technician will make any final chemical adjustments to bring the water back into balance.

9. Filtration and Circulation Monitoring

• Extended Filtration Run: After the service, the technician will recommend running the filtration system continuously for 24 to 48 hours to ensure that all remaining algae, debris, and chemicals are filtered out of the water.

• Monitor Chemical Effectiveness: The technician may recommend a follow-up visit or phone call after a few days to check the water quality and ensure that the algae issue is fully resolved and that the pool remains clear.

10. Documentation and Client Communication

• Service Report: After completing the service, the technician will provide a service report that includes a summary of the treatments applied, the chemicals used, the condition of the pool, and any additional recommendations or follow-up actions.

• Client Education: The technician will inform the pool owner about steps to take to prevent algae growth in the future, such as regular chemical testing, proper pool cleaning, and maintaining consistent circulation.