A Pinch-A-Penny store in East Naples has been receiving numerous calls from residents with green pools after major storms like tropical storm Debby. In response, the owner created a hurricane prep kit for use before and after storms.
The kit includes liquid chlorine, chlorine tablets, shock treatments, algae-killing products, pH-lowering acid, and chlorine test strips.
Emory Stephens, a representative from Pinch-A-Penny, explained, “It gets slimy and turns different colors. I had a gentleman come in, and his pool was brown. Pools can be green or really yellow, but the most common issues are usually yellow and green algae.”
Heavy rain dilutes pool chemicals, disrupting alkalinity, chlorine levels, stabilizer, calcium hardness, and pH balance, creating the perfect environment for algae growth.
“You can also get phosphates, which are like food for algae,” Stephens said. “Phosphates come from common fertilizers and pollen, causing algae to grow out of control.”
Stephens advises pool owners to start preparations before a storm. Adding liquid chlorine or chlorine tablets can maintain levels and prevent algae growth.
If your pool is already green and slimy, bring a sample to the store for a free 7-point water test in their lab.
“We have a bunch of tests here; we also have a phosphate test,” Stephens explained. “When you have phosphates and you use this test, it will turn blue. This indicates the main cause of the algae breakout: either a lack of chlorine or a high presence of phosphates in the water supply.”
Maintaining two to four parts per million of chlorine is crucial. Low levels promote algae and bacteria growth, which can be unhealthy for swimmers. Chlorine test strips, included in the hurricane prep kit, are also available for purchase.
Stephens also recommends before a storm, stock up on chlorine because roads may be flooded. Have chlorine tabs and liquid chlorine, and turn off the pump at the circuit breaker if you're in a flood-prone area.
Professionals say the longer you wait to clean your pool, the more expensive it becomes.