Leslie's Algae Control Preventer is a non-metallic, non-foaming algaecide for swimming pools. Add 16 oz per 10,000 gallons initially, then 4 oz per 10,000 gallons weekly. Pour around pool perimeter with pump running, maintain proper chlorine levels, and test water regularly. This guide covers complete application procedures, dosage, and best practices for maintaining algae free pool water.
Table of Contents
What is Leslie's Algae Control Preventer?
Leslie's Algae Control Preventer is a professional grade, non-metallic algaecide designed for comprehensive swimming pool algae prevention and control. This polyquaternary ammonium based formula provides powerful, long lasting algae protection without the staining risks associated with copper based algaecides. Algae Control Preventer is non-foaming, making it ideal for pools with waterfalls, fountains, or other water features where foam would be undesirable.
Key Features of Algae Control Preventer
- Non-metallic formula: No risk of staining pool surfaces
- Non-foaming: Won't create foam or bubbles
- Concentrated solution: Effective at recommended dosages
- Broad spectrum: Works against all algae types
- Long lasting protection: Provides continuous algae control
- Safe for all surfaces: Compatible with vinyl, fiberglass, plaster, and tile
- Works with all sanitizers: Compatible with chlorine, salt, bromine, and mineral systems
- Professional strength: Used by pool service professionals
How Algae Control Preventer Differs from Copper Algaecides
Unlike copper based algaecides that can stain pool surfaces or quaternary ammonium algaecides that may foam, Leslie's Algae Control Preventer uses a polymer based formula that provides effective algae prevention without these common side effects. The non-metallic formula makes it ideal for pools with light colored surfaces or those prone to staining from metals in the water.
Why Choose Leslie's Algae Control Preventer?
Benefits of Non-Metallic Algaecide
- Prevents all types of algae growth
- Treats existing algae when combined with shock
- Maintains crystal clear water
- No staining or foaming issues
- Reduces chlorine consumption
- Works in all water conditions
- Provides season long protection
- Safe for all pool types and surfaces
Algae Prevention vs Treatment
Leslie's Algae Control Preventer works most effectively as a preventative treatment when added weekly throughout the swimming season. While it can help control existing algae when used with shock, its primary strength is preventing algae from establishing in the first place. Consistent weekly use creates a protective barrier that inhibits algae growth.
When to Use Algae Control Preventer
Ideal Situations for Algae Control
Pool Opening:
- Add at spring pool opening
- Establishes algae prevention from season start
- Protects pool during initial water balancing
Learn about the optimal time to install a solar pool ionizer.
Weekly Preventative Maintenance:
- Add weekly throughout swimming season
- Maintains continuous algae prevention
- Most effective use of algaecide
- Prevents problems before they occur
Follow weekly pool cleaning routines for clear water.
After Heavy Rain or Storms:
- Rainwater introduces algae spores and nutrients
- Extra dose helps prevent algae bloom
- Protects during vulnerable period
Algae Treatment:
- Use with shock to treat existing algae
- Increased dosage for active algae problems
- Prevents algae recurrence after treatment
High Temperature Periods:
- Warm water promotes algae growth
- Consistent weekly use prevents blooms
- Essential during warmest months
For severe algae problems, see how to fix green pool quickly and learn about whether solar pool ionizer is effective against mustard algae.
Step by Step Application Guide
Step 1: Test and Balance Water Chemistry
Before adding Algae Control Preventer, ensure proper water balance:
- pH: 7.2 to 7.6
- Total Alkalinity: 80 to 120 ppm
- Free Chlorine: 1 to 3 ppm
- Calcium Hardness: 200 to 400 ppm
Learn about how to maintain your pool's pH balance, how to manage pool water hardness, and how solar ionizers support balanced pool water.
Step 2: Calculate Pool Volume
Accurate dosage depends on knowing your pool's water volume:
Rectangular Pools:
Length (ft) Ă Width (ft) Ă Average Depth (ft) Ă 7.5 = Gallons
Round Pools:
Diameter (ft) Ă Diameter (ft) Ă Average Depth (ft) Ă 5.9 = Gallons
Oval Pools:
Length (ft) Ă Width (ft) Ă Average Depth (ft) Ă 6.7 = Gallons
Step 3: Determine Algae Control Preventer Dosage
Leslie's Algae Control Preventer dosage guidelines:
Initial Treatment (Pool Opening or First Use)
Standard Dose: 16 oz per 10,000 gallons
Dosage Examples:
- 10,000 gallon pool: 16 oz (1 pint)
- 15,000 gallon pool: 24 oz (1.5 pints)
- 20,000 gallon pool: 32 oz (1 quart)
- 25,000 gallon pool: 40 oz (1.25 quarts)
- 30,000 gallon pool: 48 oz (1.5 quarts)
Weekly Maintenance Dose
Standard Dose: 4 oz per 10,000 gallons per week
Dosage Examples:
- 10,000 gallon pool: 4 oz weekly
- 15,000 gallon pool: 6 oz weekly
- 20,000 gallon pool: 8 oz weekly
- 25,000 gallon pool: 10 oz weekly
- 30,000 gallon pool: 12 oz weekly
Algae Treatment Dose
Treatment Dose: 8 to 16 oz per 10,000 gallons
- Use with shock for active algae
- Brush pool surfaces vigorously
- Run pump continuously
- Clean filter frequently
Step 4: Start Pool Pump
Ensure proper circulation before adding algaecide:
- Turn on pool pump to normal operating speed
- Verify water is circulating properly
- Check that all return jets are flowing
- Ensure skimmers are functioning
- Plan to run pump for at least 8 hours after application
Learn about how pool circulation supports proper maintenance.
Step 5: Add Algae Control Preventer to Pool
Apply algaecide evenly around pool:
- Shake bottle well before using
- Measure correct amount using measuring cup
- Pour Algae Control Preventer slowly around pool perimeter
- Walk around entire pool while pouring
- Distribute evenly for best results
- Pour near return jets for better mixing
- Do not add directly to skimmer
- Brush pool surfaces after adding
Use the best pool brushes for effective distribution.
Step 6: Circulate Water
Run pump for proper distribution:
- Run pump for minimum 8 hours after application
- Ensure good water circulation throughout pool
- Algae Control Preventer will distribute evenly through water
- Safe to swim immediately after application
- No waiting period required
Ongoing Maintenance Schedule
Weekly Maintenance Routine
Every Week:
- Test water chemistry (pH, alkalinity, chlorine)
- Adjust chemistry as needed
- Add weekly maintenance dose of Algae Control Preventer (4 oz per 10,000 gallons)
- Run pump for 8 to 12 hours
- Skim surface and empty skimmer baskets
- Brush pool walls and floor
- Vacuum pool if needed
- Check filter pressure
Follow a comprehensive pool cleaning checklist for beginners and avoid pool cleaning mistakes.
Monthly Maintenance Tasks
- Deep clean or backwash filter
- Test all water parameters
- Inspect pool equipment
- Clean pool tiles and waterline
- Check chemical inventory and restock
- Verify algae prevention is working
Learn how to clean pool tiles effectively.
Seasonal Considerations
Summer (High Use):
- Add Algae Control Preventer weekly without fail
- May need extra dose after pool parties
- Monitor water clarity closely
- Test water 2 to 3 times per week
See tips for cleaning your pool after a party.
Spring Opening:
- Add initial dose at pool opening
- Begin weekly maintenance immediately
- Prevents algae during startup period
Fall/Winter:
- Continue weekly treatments if pool remains open
- Reduce frequency to every 2 weeks if usage is minimal
- Add before closing pool for winter
Pro Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
Expert Tips from Pool Professionals
- Start early: Begin using at pool opening for season long protection
- Be consistent: Weekly application is key to prevention
- Maintain chlorine: Algaecide works with chlorine, not instead of it
- Balance chemistry first: Proper pH ensures optimal algaecide performance
- Don't skip weeks: Consistency prevents algae breakthrough
- Add after rain: Extra dose after storms prevents algae blooms
- Brush regularly: Brushing helps distribute algaecide and prevents algae attachment
- Clean filter regularly: Good filtration supports algae prevention
- Remove debris: Keep pool clean with regular maintenance
- Practice eco-friendly methods: Learn eco-friendly pool cleaning practices
Avoid Common Mistakes
- Skipping weekly doses: Inconsistent use allows algae breakthrough
- Using as treatment only: Algae Control Preventer is most effective as preventative
- Not maintaining chlorine: Algaecide supplements chlorine, doesn't replace it
- Ignoring water balance: Poor chemistry reduces algaecide effectiveness
- Overdosing: More is not better, follow dosage guidelines
- Adding to skimmer: Always add around pool perimeter
- Not brushing: Brushing helps prevent algae attachment
- Waiting for algae: Use preventatively, not reactively
Maximizing Algaecide Performance
Water Chemistry: Maintain proper balance for optimal algaecide performance. pH between 7.2 and 7.6 is critical.
Chlorine Levels: Keep chlorine at 1 to 3 ppm. Algaecide works with chlorine for complete protection.
Circulation: Good water circulation ensures algaecide reaches all areas of pool.
Prevention: Weekly use prevents algae more effectively than treating existing blooms.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Algae Appeared Despite Using Algae Control Preventer
Solutions:
- Verify weekly dosage is adequate for pool size
- Check chlorine levels (should be 1 to 3 ppm)
- Test and balance pH to 7.2 to 7.6
- Ensure consistent weekly application
- Shock pool to kill existing algae
- Brush pool surfaces vigorously
- Clean filter thoroughly
- Resume weekly Algae Control Preventer after algae is gone
Problem: Water Appears Cloudy
Solutions:
- Test and balance all water chemistry
- Clean or backwash filter
- Run pump 12 to 24 hours continuously
- Add clarifier if needed
- Verify chlorine levels are adequate
- Continue weekly Algae Control Preventer application
See how to handle cloudy water in swimming pools and learn about how to use pool clarifiers.
Problem: Foaming in Pool
Solutions:
- Algae Control Preventer is non-foaming, so foam is from another source
- Check for other chemicals causing foam
- Reduce aeration features temporarily
- Add anti-foam product if needed
- Verify you're not overdosing algaecide
Problem: Staining on Pool Surfaces
Solutions:
- Algae Control Preventer is non-metallic and won't cause staining
- Stains are from another source (metals, minerals, organic matter)
- Test for metals in water
- Use metal sequestrant if metals present
- Continue using Algae Control Preventer as directed
Frequently Asked Questions
How much Leslie's Algae Control Preventer should I use?
Use 16 oz per 10,000 gallons for initial treatment, then 4 oz per 10,000 gallons weekly for maintenance. For a 20,000 gallon pool, use 32 oz initially and 8 oz weekly.
How often should I add Algae Control Preventer?
Add weekly throughout the swimming season for best results. Consistent weekly application provides continuous algae prevention.
Can I swim immediately after adding Algae Control Preventer?
Yes! Algae Control Preventer is safe and you can swim immediately after application. No waiting period is required.
Will Algae Control Preventer kill existing algae?
Algae Control Preventer prevents algae and helps control existing algae when used with shock. For active algae, shock pool first, then use increased dosage of Algae Control Preventer to prevent recurrence.
Can I use Algae Control Preventer with chlorine?
Yes! Algae Control Preventer works alongside chlorine for complete pool protection. Maintain proper chlorine levels (1 to 3 ppm) while using Algae Control Preventer.
Will Algae Control Preventer stain my pool?
No. Algae Control Preventer is non-metallic and will not stain pool surfaces when used as directed.
Can I use Algae Control Preventer in a saltwater pool?
Yes! Algae Control Preventer is compatible with all pool types including saltwater, chlorine, bromine, and mineral systems.
Learn about cleaning and maintaining saltwater pools.
Does Algae Control Preventer foam?
No. Algae Control Preventer is a non-foaming formula that won't create bubbles or foam in your pool, making it ideal for pools with waterfalls or fountains.
What if I miss a weekly dose?
Add the regular weekly dose as soon as you remember, then resume your normal weekly schedule. Don't double dose to make up for missed application.
Can I use Algae Control Preventer with a solar pool ionizer?
Yes! Algae Control Preventer works excellently with solar pool ionizers for enhanced algae prevention. The combination provides superior protection with reduced chemical usage.
Explore what does a pool ionizer do, what is solar pool ionizer, how to choose solar pool ionizer, pool ionizer pros and cons, and the advantages of solar pool ionizers for residential pools.
How is Algae Control Preventer different from copper algaecides?
Algae Control Preventer is non-metallic and won't stain pool surfaces, while copper algaecides can cause staining. Algae Control Preventer is also non-foaming, making it better for pools with water features.
Can I use Algae Control Preventer with other algaecides?
It's best to use one algaecide at a time. If switching from another algaecide, wait one week before starting Algae Control Preventer.
For additional algae prevention options, see how to use No Mor Problems swimming pool algaecide and how to use Pool RX algaecide.
Conclusion
Leslie's Algae Control Preventer provides effective, long lasting algae prevention for swimming pools without the staining or foaming issues associated with other algaecides. By following proper dosing guidelines, maintaining balanced water chemistry, and applying weekly throughout the swimming season, you can enjoy crystal clear, algae free pool water with this professional strength, non-metallic algaecide that works safely with all pool types and surfaces.
For comprehensive algae prevention that works alongside Leslie's Algae Control Preventer while reducing chlorine needs by up to 85%, consider adding a solar pool ionizer which releases copper and silver ions to naturally prevent algae growth, providing dual layer protection for the clearest, healthiest pool water possible with minimal chemical usage and an eco-friendly approach to pool maintenance.
