How Pollen Affects Your Pool
Spring is in full swing, and while blooming flowers and sunny days are a welcome sight, pool owners are often met with an unwelcome guest this time of year: pollen.
It’s common to look out at a pool and notice the water turning green or cloudy, often mistaken for algae. But in many cases, it’s actually a fine layer of pollen covering the surface. Here’s what you need to know about how pollen affects your pool and how to keep your water clean and clear all season long.
What Does Pollen in Your Pool Look Like?
Pollen usually appears as:
– A yellow-green film floating on the surface
– Sticky residue on skimmers and tiles
– Sometimes it settles on the bottom, making it look like dust or algae
It can be sneaky, many pool owners mistake it for early signs of algae, but pollen behaves differently and doesn’t cling as aggressively to surfaces.
How Does Pollen Get in There?
Pollen is carried by wind and rain. If you have trees, shrubs, or flowering plants nearby (especially pines or oaks), your pool is a magnet for it. Even with a cover, pollen can sneak in every time it’s removed or blown around by spring winds.
How Pollen Affects Water Chemistry
Pollen isn’t just unsightly, it can mess with your water balance:
– It uses up chlorine, forcing your system to work harder
– It can cause cloudy water and pH imbalance
– If left untreated, it may contribute to algae growth
That’s why staying ahead of it matters.
What You Can Do About It
Here are a few simple but effective ways to tackle pollen buildup in your pool:
1. Run Your Pump Longer
– During heavy pollen days, increase circulation time to keep water moving and filter capturing debris.
2. Skim Daily
– Manual skimming helps remove large amounts of pollen before it sinks or dissolves.
– A fine mesh skimmer works better than standard ones for pollen-sized particles.
3. Vacuum and Brush
– Use a vacuum to pick up any pollen that has settled.
– Light brushing can also help keep walls and steps free of pollen dust.
4. Check and Clean Filters Often
– Your filter will do most of the heavy lifting, make sure it’s not clogged and clean it regularly.
– Consider upgrading to a finer filter media during pollen season if you’re dealing with persistent problems.
5. Maintain Proper Chemical Levels
– Stay on top of chlorine, pH, and alkalinity.
– Shock the pool if the chlorine demand spikes from excessive pollen or rainstorms.