Pollen in Pool: 6 Great Prevention Strategies

Pool owners must be prepared to deal with the pollen that will inevitably end up in their pool. Learn how to minimize the effects of pollen in your pool by following these six great prevention strategies for pollen in pool water.

Springtime indeed brings beautiful flowers, but it can also bring some not-so-beautiful problems to your water.

With all the trees and plants surrounding your pool backyard and in bloom season, they’re releasing pollen into the air, which settles on top of your pool surface.

Leaves Floating in Swimming Pool

This can cause stains or algae growth, which is definitely not what you want to see on your weekends off. Here are some tips for getting out that pesky pollen in pool before they do any more damage.

What Is Pollen?

Quite simply, pollen is tiny spores that plants produce throughout the reproductive cycle. Those pollen seeds you see are the male microgametes of a plant, which are carried to female ovules, the wind, an insect, or another animal and fertilize their female counterparts.

Catkins are the last surviving element of a blooming tree’s male pollination system. Sometimes this pollen falls from the tree and covers cars, swimming pools, and walkways. People who suffer from allergies find it nearly intolerable when they are around them.

Pollen in Pool Water

Pollen has two categories. The first type of pollen is known as sticky pollen. This is produced by plants that have beautiful flowers—bees transport pollen to neighboring plants for fertilization. The second kind of pollen is wind-blown pollen, which big trees such as pine, oak, and other conifers produce.

Yes, oak trees are beautiful in view, but they are one of the most dreaded things for allergy sufferers during the pollen season. Before the pollen season is in full swing, now is the ideal time to get your home ready for the new season to prevent the hassle that comes with pollen in pool.

How To Quickly Spot Pollen in Pool?

It’s easy to assume in springtime that the yellow layer on the surface of your pool is pollen. But sometimes, it could be a form of yellow algae.

Yellow Algae Carpet on Water

You can easily spot pollen if they have these characteristics.

  • Pollens sticks to the pool tile at the waterline
  • Pollens sticks inside the skimmer
  • Pollen is often seen in corners because the wind easily blows them
  • Pollen dissolves and can sink underwater, often on the dark side of the pool
  • Pool water feels sticky as if your hair gel is mixed in
Note: excessive pollen can cause yellow stains on pool tiles and liners that are hard to clean. Pollen can slip underneath the tile or into the cracks around the pool. As pollen hardens, it becomes stuck and difficult to remove. This could cause a permanent stain on your pool and liner.

6 Easy Steps To Keep Pollen Out of Your Swimming Pool

Pool Filter and Water Jet Electric Device

Step 1: Keep Your Filter Clean

Pollen can be very difficult to remove from the surface of the water. It’s essential to have not only a cleaner but also a filter that is properly maintained to take pollen out of your swimming pool. You want it to circulate through the water continuously, so pollen particles don’t have a chance to settle and stick around. Ensure that every opening and every clog is taken care of before they become a problem. 

Step 2: Vacuum

Vacuuming your pool is the best thing you can do for your water. Some people think it’s a waste of time or an unnecessary hassle, but it’s essential to do it every week, even if in a short time. It will help remove any pollen that may be clogging openings and prevent future issues.

Step 3: Quickly Skim the Top

If you choose not to vacuum, then it’s still essential to quickly skim the surface of your pool or spa weekly so any debris can be flushed away. This will help prevent the particles from sticking around and falling through the bottom of your filter, skimmer basket, or pump basket.

Woman Skimming Pool to Clean

Step 4: Inspect Your Filter

Every three weeks, take the time to inspect your filter thoroughly. This will prevent any potential issues from developing and give you a chance to see any problems before they become an issue. 

Step 5: Add Chlorine

Pollens settle and stick around, which can cause algae growth. Adding extra chlorine will help dilute the amount of pollen in the water. Also, if you notice signs of pollen in the water, adding chlorine will help prevent unwanted algae growth.

Step 6: Clean Your Skimmer Baskets

If you don’t have a skimmer basket, you still need to maintain your filter regularly. Skimmer baskets are typically made of plastic and can quickly become clogged with debris. Just like the filter, you need to maintain them so they can do their job correctly. This means making sure the openings are clear and utterly free of pollen in pool before they become an issue.

“This is the final resort because it will result in an increase in both your energy and water costs. You’ll require more power to run the vacuum, and you’ll have to refill the pool with water to compensate for the water that was lost throughout the procedure.”

Matt Giovanisci, founder of Swim University®

How to Up Your Pool Game During Pollen Season

If you’re a pool owner, you know that pollen season can be a challenge. But with the right tools and tactics, you can keep your pool clean and clear. Here’s a straightforward guide to make it happen.

Your Pool Filter: The MVP

Your pool filter is your main player against pollen. It works hard to clear out the unwanted stuff, but to keep it efficient, you need to clean and maintain it regularly. Lori Morris of Selah Pools reminds us of the importance of a well-functioning filter, saying that it’s key to keeping out small particles like pollen. So, make sure it’s always in top shape!

Aluminum Sulfate: The Secret Weapon

Even the best filters might miss some tiny pollen bits. That’s where aluminum sulfate comes in. Adding it to your pool helps trap those sneaky pollen particles and boosts your filter’s performance.

Skimmer with Mesh: Your Daily Tool

Every morning, make it a routine to use a skimmer with a fine mesh head. It’s a simple way to pick up any pollen that settled overnight. The finer the mesh, the better it will be at catching even the smallest grains.

Balance with Chemicals

Pollen can mess with your pool’s chemical balance. Regularly check the water and adjust the chemicals as needed. If this sounds like a lot, services like Pool Troopers can help manage this for you.

Seasonal Tasks: Cleaning and Repair

Spring is the perfect time to give your pool a thorough clean, especially with pollen around. Once you get through pollen season, consider fall as the ideal time to check for any pool repairs. It sets you up for a smoother next season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I tell if it’s pollen and not algae?

Pollen typically floats on the water’s surface and is easily disturbed, whereas algae cling to surfaces and are more difficult to disperse.

How often should I clean my pool during pollen season?

Increase cleaning frequency during high pollen times – daily skimming and weekly vacuuming are recommended.

Do pool chemicals break down pollen?

Regular chlorination and proper pH balance will help keep the water clear but won’t necessarily break down pollen.

Can I use a flocculant to remove pollen?

Flocculants can help clump fine particles like pollen for easier removal, but they should be used according to manufacturer instructions.

Can landscaping around my pool reduce pollen?

Strategic landscaping with low-pollen plants can reduce the amount of pollen that ends up in your pool.

Bottom Line

Don’t let small bits of pollen in pool ruin your day or your favorite spot. Take responsibility and maintain your pool, so you’re not stuck with a mess forever. I hope this article helped teach you how to keep pollen out of your swimming pool.

You can find all pool-related articles on our website. Here are a few to get you started. Happy swimming!

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About the author

Brian Anderson

The rather dry pool world out there is in need of some passion to make it shine. With the help of my son Ruben and his wife Maria our mission is to help you create the favorite spot of your house - your pool.

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