SeaKlear Yellow Klear is a specialized algae control product designed to eliminate mustard (yellow) algae from swimming pools. Add 1 quart per 10,000 gallons for treatment, brush pool vigorously, run pump 24 hours, clean filter. Works quickly to clear resistant mustard algae. This guide covers complete application procedures and best practices for mustard algae treatment.
Table of Contents
What is SeaKlear Yellow Klear Algae Control?
SeaKlear Yellow Klear is a specialized algae control product formulated specifically to eliminate mustard (yellow) algae from swimming pools. This powerful treatment works quickly to kill chlorine-resistant mustard algae that has proven difficult to remove with standard algaecides or regular chlorine treatments. Yellow Klear is designed to penetrate the protective coating that makes mustard algae so resistant to conventional pool chemicals.
Key Features of Yellow Klear
- Fast acting: Eliminates mustard algae quickly
- Specialized formula: Designed specifically for yellow algae
- Powerful treatment: Kills chlorine-resistant algae strains
- Penetrates protective coating: Breaks through mustard algae defenses
- Easy to use: Simple application process
- Works with shock: Use alongside pool shock for best results
- Safe for all surfaces: Compatible with vinyl, fiberglass, plaster, and tile
- Professional strength: Used by pool service professionals
How Yellow Klear Differs from Regular Algaecides
Unlike preventative algaecides used for weekly maintenance, Yellow Klear is a treatment product designed to kill existing mustard algae quickly. Its specialized formula is specifically formulated to overcome the chlorine resistance that makes mustard algae so difficult to eliminate with standard treatments.
Why Use Yellow Klear for Mustard Algae?
Benefits of Specialized Mustard Algae Treatment
- Kills stubborn mustard algae quickly
- Effective against chlorine-resistant strains
- Works faster than standard algaecides
- Penetrates protective algae coating
- Clears persistent yellow algae problems
- Easy to apply
- Works with all sanitizers
- Helps prevent mustard algae recurrence when used properly
Understanding Mustard Algae
Mustard algae (also called yellow algae) is a chlorine-resistant form of algae that appears as yellow or tan colored spots, typically in shaded areas of the pool. It brushes off easily but returns quickly, making it frustrating to eliminate. Mustard algae has a protective coating that shields it from normal chlorine levels, requiring specialized treatment like Yellow Klear.
When to Use Yellow Klear
Ideal Situations for Yellow Klear
Mustard Algae Identification:
- Yellow or tan colored algae spots
- Algae that brushes off but returns
- Chlorine-resistant algae
- Algae in shaded areas of pool
- Algae that looks like dirt or sand
Learn about whether solar pool ionizer is effective against mustard algae.
Recurring Algae Problems:
- Algae that keeps coming back
- Algae resistant to standard treatments
- Persistent yellow spots
- Algae that survives shocking
After Diagnosis:
- Confirmed mustard algae presence
- Standard treatments have failed
- Pool professional recommendation
For general green algae, see how to fix green pool quickly.
Step by Step Application Guide
Step 1: Test and Balance Water Chemistry
Before treating mustard algae, test and adjust water:
- pH: 7.2 to 7.6 (lower end is better for algae treatment)
- Total Alkalinity: 80 to 120 ppm
- Free Chlorine: Note current level (likely low with algae present)
- Calcium Hardness: 200 to 400 ppm
Learn about how to maintain your pool's pH balance.
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 Yellow Klear Dosage
SeaKlear Yellow Klear dosage guidelines:
Standard Treatment Dosage
1 quart per 10,000 gallons
Dosage Examples:
- 10,000 gallon pool: 1 quart (32 oz)
- 15,000 gallon pool: 1.5 quarts (48 oz)
- 20,000 gallon pool: 2 quarts (64 oz)
- 25,000 gallon pool: 2.5 quarts (80 oz)
- 30,000 gallon pool: 3 quarts (96 oz)
Severe Mustard Algae
For very heavy or persistent mustard algae, may need to repeat treatment after 24 hours if algae remains.
Step 4: Shock Pool First
Critical step for mustard algae treatment:
- Shock pool with calcium hypochlorite or liquid chlorine
- Use 2 to 3 lbs shock per 10,000 gallons
- For severe mustard algae, use triple shock dose
- Add shock in evening for best results
- Allow shock to circulate for 1 to 2 hours
Step 5: Add Yellow Klear to Pool
Apply algae control after shocking:
- Shake Yellow Klear bottle well before using
- Measure correct amount based on pool size
- Pour Yellow Klear 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
Step 6: Brush Pool Vigorously
Essential step for mustard algae removal:
- Brush entire pool surface thoroughly
- Brush walls from top to bottom
- Brush floor in overlapping strokes
- Brush steps, corners, and crevices
- Brush behind ladders and fittings
- Continue brushing for 15 to 20 minutes
- Focus on areas with visible algae
Step 7: Run Pump Continuously
Ensure proper circulation during treatment:
- Run pump continuously for 24 to 48 hours
- Do not turn off pump during treatment
- Allows chemicals to circulate throughout pool
- Filters out dead algae
- Monitor filter pressure closely
Learn about how pool circulation supports proper maintenance.
Step 8: Clean Filter Frequently
Critical for removing dead algae:
- Clean or backwash filter when pressure rises 8 to 10 PSI
- May need to clean filter 3 to 5 times during treatment
- Backwash sand or DE filters thoroughly
- Clean cartridge filters with hose
- Continue until water runs clear
Step 9: Vacuum Pool
Remove dead algae from pool:
- After 24 to 48 hours, vacuum pool thoroughly
- Vacuum to waste if possible
- If vacuuming to filter, clean filter immediately after
- Remove all visible algae debris
- Refill pool to proper level if vacuumed to waste
Step 10: Wash Pool Accessories
Prevent mustard algae reintroduction:
- Wash all pool toys and floats
- Clean pool equipment and tools
- Wash swimsuits that were used in pool
- Mustard algae can survive on these items
- Prevents recontamination of pool
Post Treatment Maintenance
Immediate Follow Up (First Week)
Daily Tasks:
- Test chlorine levels (maintain 3 to 5 ppm)
- Test pH and adjust to 7.2 to 7.6
- Brush pool surfaces daily
- Run pump 24 hours daily
- Monitor water clarity
- Clean filter as pressure rises
After 48 Hours:
- Vacuum pool again if needed
- Test all water chemistry parameters
- Add preventative algaecide
- Continue elevated chlorine (3 to 5 ppm)
Follow a comprehensive pool cleaning checklist for beginners and weekly pool cleaning routines.
Ongoing Prevention
Weekly Maintenance:
- Test water chemistry 2 to 3 times per week
- Maintain proper chlorine levels (1 to 3 ppm)
- Add weekly preventative algaecide
- Brush pool surfaces weekly
- Vacuum pool weekly
- Clean filter monthly
Pro Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
Expert Tips from Pool Professionals
- Shock first: Always shock pool before adding Yellow Klear
- Brush vigorously: Brushing is critical for mustard algae removal
- Run pump continuously: 24 to 48 hours minimum
- Clean filter frequently: Expect to clean 3 to 5 times
- Vacuum to waste: Removes algae from pool completely
- Maintain high chlorine: Keep 3 to 5 ppm during treatment
- Wash accessories: Prevents reintroduction of mustard algae
- Be patient: Complete treatment takes 2 to 5 days
- Prevent recurrence: Use weekly algaecide after treatment
Avoid Common Mistakes
- Not shocking first: Yellow Klear works best with shock
- Insufficient brushing: Must brush vigorously and frequently
- Turning off pump: Needs continuous circulation
- Not cleaning filter: Clogged filter reduces effectiveness
- Swimming too soon: Wait until chlorine drops below 5 ppm
- Not washing accessories: Mustard algae can survive on items
- Stopping treatment early: Complete full treatment process
- Not maintaining prevention: Mustard algae returns without proper maintenance
Maximizing Yellow Klear Effectiveness
Water Chemistry: Maintain pH at lower end (7.2 to 7.4) during treatment for maximum chlorine effectiveness.
Brushing: Brush pool surfaces every 12 hours during treatment to dislodge algae and expose it to chemicals.
Filtration: Run pump continuously and clean filter frequently to remove dead algae.
Prevention: Use weekly algaecide and maintain proper chlorine to prevent mustard algae return.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much Yellow Klear should I use?
Use 1 quart per 10,000 gallons for standard treatment. For a 20,000 gallon pool, use 2 quarts. For severe mustard algae, you may need to repeat treatment after 24 hours.
How long does it take Yellow Klear to work?
Yellow Klear typically eliminates mustard algae within 24 to 48 hours when used with shock and proper brushing. Complete clarity may take 3 to 5 days depending on algae severity.
Do I need to shock my pool when using Yellow Klear?
Yes! Shocking is essential for Yellow Klear to work effectively. Shock pool first, then add Yellow Klear. The combination kills mustard algae much faster than either product alone.
Can I swim after adding Yellow Klear?
Wait until chlorine levels drop below 5 ppm before swimming, typically 24 to 48 hours after shocking and treating. Test chlorine before swimming.
Will Yellow Klear work on green or black algae?
Yellow Klear is specifically designed for mustard (yellow) algae. For green or black algae, use treatments designed for those algae types.
How often should I brush my pool during treatment?
Brush your pool at least twice daily (every 12 hours) during treatment. Vigorous brushing is essential for breaking up mustard algae and allowing chemicals to work.
Why do I need to wash pool accessories?
Mustard algae can survive on pool toys, floats, equipment, and even swimsuits. Washing these items prevents reintroduction of mustard algae spores back into your pool.
Can I use Yellow Klear in a saltwater pool?
Yes! Yellow Klear is compatible with all pool types including saltwater, chlorine, bromine, and mineral systems.
Learn about cleaning and maintaining saltwater pools.
Why is my filter pressure so high during treatment?
High filter pressure is normal during algae treatment as the filter captures dead algae. Clean or backwash your filter when pressure rises 8 to 10 PSI above normal.
Can I use Yellow Klear with a solar pool ionizer?
Yes! Yellow Klear kills existing mustard algae while solar pool ionizers prevent future algae growth. Use Yellow Klear for treatment, then add a solar ionizer for ongoing prevention.
Explore what does a pool ionizer do and pool ionizer pros and cons.
Conclusion
SeaKlear Yellow Klear Algae Control provides fast, effective treatment for stubborn mustard algae in swimming pools. By following proper application procedures (shock first, add Yellow Klear, brush vigorously, run pump continuously, clean filter frequently, wash accessories), you can eliminate chlorine-resistant mustard algae within 24 to 48 hours. Complete the full treatment process and maintain proper water chemistry to prevent mustard algae from returning.
For long term algae prevention that reduces the need for aggressive treatments like Yellow Klear, consider adding a solar pool ionizer which uses solar power to release copper and silver ions continuously, reducing chlorine needs by up to 85% while providing season long algae and bacteria prevention that helps keep your pool clear and prevents the stubborn mustard algae problems that require Yellow Klear treatment.
