Ultima Nix is a dual-action algaecide and phosphate remover for swimming pools. Add 1 liter per 20,000 gallons, run pump 48 hours, clean filter. Prevents algae while removing phosphates (algae food). This guide covers complete application procedures and best practices for maintaining clear, algae free pool water.
Table of Contents
What is Ultima Nix Algaecide and Phosphate Remover?
Ultima Nix is a unique dual-action pool treatment that combines algaecide and phosphate remover in one formula. This innovative product not only prevents and controls algae growth but also removes phosphates from pool water. Phosphates are nutrients that feed algae, so removing them makes it significantly harder for algae to thrive. By addressing both algae and its food source simultaneously, Ultima Nix provides comprehensive protection for your pool.
Key Features of Ultima Nix
- Dual-action formula: Kills algae and removes phosphates
- Prevents algae growth: Eliminates algae food source
- Clears cloudy water: Improves water clarity
- Reduces chlorine demand: Less algae means less chlorine consumption
- Works with all sanitizers: Compatible with chlorine, salt, bromine, and mineral systems
- Safe for all surfaces: Compatible with vinyl, fiberglass, plaster, and tile
- Easy to use: Simple one-step application
- Professional strength: Used by pool service professionals
How Ultima Nix Differs from Standard Algaecides
Unlike traditional algaecides that only kill algae, Ultima Nix tackles the root cause by removing phosphates that feed algae growth. This dual approach provides longer lasting protection and reduces the likelihood of recurring algae problems. By eliminating the nutrient source, you create an environment where algae cannot easily establish or multiply.
Why Choose Ultima Nix for Pool Care?
Benefits of Dual-Action Treatment
- Prevents algae growth by removing food source
- Treats existing algae when combined with shock
- Removes phosphates up to 9,000 ppb per treatment
- Maintains crystal clear water
- Reduces need for multiple products
- Lowers overall chemical usage
- Provides long term algae prevention
- Cost effective multi-purpose solution
Understanding Phosphates in Pools
Phosphates enter pool water from various sources including fertilizers, leaves, pollen, dirt, and even some pool chemicals. Algae use phosphates as a primary food source, and high phosphate levels (above 500 ppb) can make algae problems more difficult to control even with proper chlorine levels. Removing phosphates eliminates this key nutrient, making your pool less hospitable to algae.
When to Use Ultima Nix
Ideal Situations for Ultima Nix
High Phosphate Levels:
- Test shows phosphates above 500 ppb
- Recurring algae problems despite proper chlorine
- Difficulty maintaining water clarity
- High chlorine demand
Algae Problems:
- Green tint to water
- Algae spots on surfaces
- Cloudy water with algae present
- After heavy use or neglect
For severe algae, see how to fix green pool quickly.
Preventative Maintenance:
- After heavy rain or storms
- After lawn fertilization near pool
- During high pollen seasons
- At pool opening
- When phosphates reach 500 ppb or higher
Multiple Pool Issues:
- Cloudy water with high phosphates
- Algae and poor water clarity
- Pool with multiple water quality problems
Step by Step Application Guide
Step 1: Test Phosphate Levels
Before treating, test your pool's phosphate level:
- Use phosphate test kit or test strips
- Follow test kit instructions carefully
- Record phosphate level in ppb (parts per billion)
- Target: Keep phosphates below 500 ppb
- Treatment recommended when above 500 ppb
Step 2: Test and Balance Water Chemistry
Ensure proper water balance before adding Ultima Nix:
- pH: 7.2 to 7.6
- Total Alkalinity: 80 to 120 ppm
- Free Chlorine: 1 to 3 ppm (minimum)
- Calcium Hardness: 200 to 400 ppm
Learn about how to maintain your pool's pH balance and how to manage pool water hardness.
Step 3: 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 4: Determine Ultima Nix Dosage
Ultima Nix dosage guidelines:
Standard Treatment Dosage
1 liter per 20,000 gallons removes up to 9,000 ppb phosphates
Dosage Examples:
- 10,000 gallon pool: 0.5 liter (16 oz)
- 15,000 gallon pool: 0.75 liter (24 oz)
- 20,000 gallon pool: 1 liter (32 oz)
- 25,000 gallon pool: 1.25 liters (40 oz)
- 30,000 gallon pool: 1.5 liters (48 oz)
Dosage Based on Phosphate Levels
- 500 to 3,000 ppb: Use standard dosage
- 3,000 to 6,000 ppb: May need double dose
- Above 6,000 ppb: May require multiple treatments
- Retest after 48 hours and retreat if needed
Step 5: Clean Pool Before Treatment
Prepare pool for best results:
- Skim surface to remove floating debris
- Brush pool walls and floor
- Vacuum pool if heavily soiled
- Empty skimmer baskets
- Clean or backwash filter before treatment
Use the best pool brushes for effective cleaning.
Step 6: Add Ultima Nix to Pool
Apply treatment to pool water:
- Shake Ultima Nix bottle well before using
- Measure correct amount based on pool size
- Pour Ultima Nix 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 7: Run Pump Continuously
Critical step for treatment effectiveness:
- Run pump continuously for 48 hours
- Do not turn off pump during treatment
- Allows Ultima Nix to work throughout pool
- Filters out bound particles and phosphates
- Monitor filter pressure during treatment
Learn about how pool circulation supports proper maintenance.
Step 8: Clean Filter After 48 Hours
Essential step for removing captured debris:
Sand or DE Filters:
- Backwash filter thoroughly
- May need to backwash 2 to 3 times
- Run until water runs clear
Cartridge Filters:
- Remove and clean cartridge thoroughly
- Rinse with hose until water runs clear
- May need chemical cleaning if heavily soiled
Step 9: Test and Adjust Chemistry
After treatment:
- Test all water parameters
- Adjust pH and alkalinity as needed
- Verify chlorine is at proper level
- Retest phosphates after 48 hours
- Water should be clear and sparkling
- Resume normal pool maintenance
Post Treatment Maintenance
Immediate Follow Up (First Week)
Daily Tasks:
- Test water chemistry daily
- Maintain proper chlorine levels (1 to 3 ppm)
- Monitor water clarity
- Brush pool surfaces
- Check filter pressure
After 48 Hours:
- Clean filter thoroughly (essential)
- Vacuum pool if needed
- Test all water parameters
- Retest phosphate levels
- Add algaecide for prevention if desired
Follow a comprehensive pool cleaning checklist for beginners.
Ongoing Prevention
Monthly Testing:
- Test phosphates monthly during swim season
- More frequently if near fertilized lawns
- After heavy rain or storms
- If algae problems recur
- Keep phosphates below 500 ppb
Weekly Maintenance:
- Test water chemistry 2 to 3 times per week
- Maintain proper chlorine levels
- Add weekly algaecide for prevention
- Brush pool surfaces weekly
- Vacuum pool weekly
- Clean filter monthly
For ongoing algae prevention, see how to use preventative algaecides.
Pro Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
Expert Tips from Pool Professionals
- Test first: Always test phosphates before treating
- Run pump 48 hours: Don't skip this critical step
- Clean filter after: Essential for removing captured phosphates
- Remove debris first: Clean pool before treating for best results
- Monitor filter pressure: May rise during treatment
- Retest after treatment: Verify phosphates were removed
- Prevent introduction: Keep lawn fertilizers away from pool
- Remove leaves promptly: Organic matter adds phosphates
- Test after rain: Storm water can introduce phosphates
- Practice eco-friendly methods: Learn eco-friendly pool cleaning practices
Avoid Common Mistakes
- Not running pump 48 hours: Reduces effectiveness
- Not cleaning filter after: Phosphates remain in filter
- Overdosing: More is not better, follow dosage guidelines
- Treating without testing: May not need treatment
- Adding to skimmer: Always add around perimeter
- Turning off pump: Needs continuous circulation
- Not retesting: Can't verify treatment success
- Ignoring debris: Remove leaves and organic matter
Maximizing Treatment Effectiveness
Proper Dosage: Use correct amount based on pool size and phosphate level for optimal results.
Continuous Circulation: Run pump 48 hours without interruption to allow Ultima Nix to work.
Filter Cleaning: Thoroughly clean filter after treatment to remove captured phosphates and debris.
Prevention: Remove debris weekly and keep fertilizers away from pool to prevent phosphate introduction.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Water Turned Cloudy After Treatment
Cause: Normal reaction as phosphates and algae are being removed
Solutions:
- Continue running pump for full 48 hours
- Cloudiness should clear within 48 to 72 hours
- Clean filter after 48 hours
- Add clarifier if cloudiness persists
- Verify filter is functioning properly
See how to handle cloudy water in swimming pools and learn about how to use pool clarifiers.
Problem: Phosphates Still High After Treatment
Solutions:
- Verify pump ran continuously for 48 hours
- Ensure filter was cleaned after treatment
- May need additional treatment for very high levels
- Check for ongoing phosphate sources (fertilizers, debris)
- Retest to confirm phosphate level
- Apply second treatment if needed
Problem: Filter Pressure Very High
Cause: Filter capturing phosphates and debris
Solutions:
- This is normal during treatment
- Backwash or clean filter if pressure rises 8 to 10 PSI
- May need to clean filter multiple times
- Continue running pump for full 48 hours
- Clean filter thoroughly after treatment
Problem: Algae Still Present
Solutions:
- Ultima Nix helps with algae but may need shock for heavy algae
- Shock pool to kill remaining algae
- Brush pool surfaces vigorously
- Maintain proper chlorine levels (1 to 3 ppm)
- Clean filter frequently
- Phosphate removal prevents future algae growth
Frequently Asked Questions
How much Ultima Nix should I use?
Use 1 liter per 20,000 gallons to remove up to 9,000 ppb phosphates. For a 20,000 gallon pool, use 1 liter. For a 10,000 gallon pool, use 0.5 liter (16 oz).
How long after adding Ultima Nix can I swim?
You can swim immediately after adding Ultima Nix. However, water may be cloudy for up to 48 hours as phosphates are being removed. Wait until water clears for best swimming experience.
Do I need to remove phosphates from my pool?
While not required, removing phosphates (especially above 500 ppb) makes algae prevention much easier and reduces chlorine consumption. It's a proactive approach to pool maintenance.
Will Ultima Nix kill algae?
Ultima Nix helps control algae and removes phosphates (algae food) but works best when combined with shock for active algae. For heavy algae, shock pool first, then use Ultima Nix to prevent recurrence.
How often should I use Ultima Nix?
Use Ultima Nix when phosphate levels reach 500 ppb or higher. Test monthly and treat as needed. Frequency depends on phosphate introduction from rain, debris, and fertilizers.
Can I use Ultima Nix with chlorine?
Yes! Ultima Nix works with all sanitizers including chlorine, salt, bromine, and mineral systems. It complements your existing sanitization program.
Why is my pool cloudy after adding Ultima Nix?
Cloudiness is normal as Ultima Nix binds with phosphates and algae. Continue running pump for 48 hours, then clean filter. Water should clear within 48 to 72 hours.
Do I need to clean my filter after using Ultima Nix?
Yes! Cleaning your filter after 48 hours is essential. The filter captures the phosphates and algae bound by Ultima Nix, and they must be removed through backwashing or cartridge cleaning.
Can I use Ultima Nix in a saltwater pool?
Yes! Ultima Nix is compatible with all pool types including saltwater, chlorine, bromine, and mineral systems.
Learn about cleaning and maintaining saltwater pools.
Will Ultima Nix lower my chlorine demand?
Yes! By removing phosphates (algae food), there's less algae growth, which means less chlorine is consumed fighting algae. This can significantly reduce chlorine usage.
Can I use Ultima Nix with a solar pool ionizer?
Yes! Ultima Nix removes phosphates while solar pool ionizers prevent algae through mineral sanitization. They work well together for comprehensive algae prevention.
Explore pool ionizer pros and cons and the advantages of solar pool ionizers for residential pools.
Conclusion
Ultima Nix Algaecide and Phosphate Remover provides a comprehensive dual-action solution for pools experiencing algae problems and high phosphate levels. By following proper application procedures (1 liter per 20,000 gallons, run pump 48 hours continuously, clean filter thoroughly after treatment), you can eliminate both algae and its food source, creating an environment where algae cannot easily thrive. This proactive approach reduces chemical usage, lowers chlorine demand, and makes pool maintenance significantly easier.
For long term pool clarity and algae prevention that works alongside phosphate removal, 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 complements phosphate removal for the ultimate in low-maintenance, eco-friendly pool care.
