How to Effectively Remove Pollen from Your Pool: A 5-Step Guide

As the weather warms up, you may find yourself waking up to a pool that was once clear and inviting now showing a yellowish tinge. Pollen, particularly during spring and summer, can quickly accumulate in your pool, especially if you have nearby plants or trees. But don’t worry—getting rid of pollen from your pool doesn’t have to be a complex process. In this guide, we’ll show you how to remove pollen in five simple steps, so your pool stays clean and ready for a swim all season long.

Why Does Pollen End Up in Your Pool?

If you have a garden or backyard plants, you’re likely familiar with the seasonal influx of pollen. Trees, flowers, and even the wind from nearby areas can all contribute to the pollen that drifts into your pool. While it's impossible to avoid pollen entirely, knowing how to handle it when it appears can save you time and effort. So, what can you do about it?

Step 1: Run Your Pool’s Filtration System

Your filtration system is the first line of defense against pollen. While it won’t completely eliminate the issue, keeping your filter running will help reduce the amount of pollen in your pool by catching particles before they settle. Running the filter may raise your energy bill slightly, but it’s worth it to keep pollen at bay and minimize the work you have to do later.

Step 2: Skim the Surface Regularly

Skimming is one of the easiest and most effective ways to remove pollen from your pool. Every morning, use a pool skimmer with a fine mesh head to remove any pollen that has settled on the surface. During peak pollen season, you may need to skim more than once a day. This simple step can save you a lot of time and hassle by preventing pollen from sinking deeper into the water.

Step 3: Add Aluminum Sulfate to Help Bind Pollen

For smaller pollen particles that might pass through your filter or be too tiny for your skimmer to catch, aluminum sulfate can help. This compound works by binding to the pollen particles, causing them to clump together. Once clumped, they become easier to collect with your skimmer or filter. Adding aluminum sulfate ensures that the smaller pollen particles don’t linger in your pool water.

Step 4: Shock Your Pool

Although pool shock won’t directly remove pollen, it plays an important role in maintaining water quality. Shocking your pool helps to kill any bacteria or algae that may be thriving due to the pollen in the water. Add shock to your pool in the evening, and then allow the filtration system to run overnight. In the morning, give your pool a thorough skim to remove both the pollen and any other organic contaminants.

Step 5: Vacuum the Pool as Needed

If skimming and filtration aren’t enough to fully remove the pollen, you may need to vacuum your pool. While this method can be more time-consuming and increases your water and electricity usage, it is effective for cleaning up any remaining particles. Use a weighted vacuum head to make the process easier, and don’t forget to replace the water you remove during the vacuuming.

Keep Pollen at Bay All Season Long

By following these five steps, you can keep your pool clean and pollen-free throughout the peak allergy season. Regular maintenance, including running your filtration system, skimming the surface, and using aluminum sulfate when necessary, will go a long way in preventing pollen from taking over your pool.

Ready to take control of your pool’s cleanliness and ensure it stays inviting throughout the season? Start implementing these steps today and enjoy a clear, refreshing pool without the pollen problem.