Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Links

Why do we call Algaecide Algicide?

What are algae?

Algae are actually microscopic plants. Like all plants, algae require nutrients. Algae obtain their food from leaves, plants and organic matter (including bathers). There are in excess of thirty thousand different species! In an effort to make identification easier, the swimming pool industry classifies algae as blue-green, mustard, pink and black algae (also known as black-spot algae). Blue-green algae tent to be of the floating variety, whereas mustard algae and black algae cling to the pool interior, particularly cracks and crevices. The clinging species of algae are the most difficult to control.

Can chlorine be used as an algaecide?

It is true that chlorine compounds can be used to treat algae infestations. However, chlorine resistant algae consume large quantities of chlorine, reducing the free chlorine available to control bacteria and viruses.

Does Lo-Chlor Pool Algicide really last 3 months?

Absolutely!  The unique organo copper formula allows the the algaecide to release the copper slowly in the water over a 90-day period.

What prevents the copper in Lo-Chlor Pool Algicide from staining the pool?

Lo-Chlor Pool Algicide is a specially formulated product containing a unique organo copper complex. This means that the copper ion has been complexed to stop if from coming out of solution and possibly causing a pool to stain. We guarantee that Lo-Chlor will not stain a pool providing that the pool water balance is within the APSP (NSPI) suggested levels for balanced water and Lo-Chlor Pool Algicide being used according to the stated directions.

What causes cloudy water?

When particles of dust and other matter become suspended in clear pool water, the pool takes on a cloudy appearance. Ineffective filtration systems, high pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, high bather loads and the pool water supply are common factors that lead to cloudy pools. Miraclear is designed to capture these ultra fine particles and collect in the filter media.

What is the difference between a clarifier and a flocculent?

A clarifier is designed to be used with a filter system, so particles coagulate in the filter. A flocculent is NOT to be used with the water being passed through filtration system as the filter may clog. Flocculents are formulated to drop particles to the bottom of the pool, so they can be vacuumed away through the filter process of bypassing the filter system. Maxi-floc is used in “seriously cloudy water”, when you cannot see the pool bottom or main drain.

What color are metal stains?

Metal Gone and Multi-Stain Remover are two Lo-Chlor products specifically design to remove metals and/or stains.

Both can be used in cement, fiberglass or vinyl liner pools, care must be taken to adjust the pH and chlorine residuals prior to adding either product. Each type pool finish contains specific materials which react differently with Multi-Stain Remover. Follow Lo-Chlor Multi-Stain Remover directions to prevent harm to the finish.

Why is testing for phosphates important?

Phosphates come from leaves, fertilizers, and bather wastes such as sweat and urine. Other phosphate sources are detergents, some insecticides, soft drinks, toothpaste and even some pool chemicals. Phosphates are a food source for algal growth in swimming pools. If phosphates are reduced in the pool water, the algae will not have nourishment and will die. Phosphates can be tested using the Lo-Chlor Phosphate Test Kit. Lo-Chlor Starver has been formulated to remove phosphates.

Can Starver be used in fish ponds and salt water or freshwater aquariums?

Yes, Starver is actually formulated to be environmentally safe for humans, mammals and fish. Specific instructions are provided depending on type of water being treated.

Where do phosphates come from?

Phosphates are organic building blocks that form when phosphoric acid reacts with various elements found in nature. Phosphates come from leaves, fertilizers, and bather wastes such as sweat and urine. Other phosphates sources are detergents, some insecticides, soft drinks, toothpaste and even some pool chemicals.