What kind of maintenance can help prevent the formation of black algae?

Frequent shocking and brushing the pool is essential in preventing the formation of black algae, which is a particularly resilient type of pool algae. Shocking the pool regularly helps to eliminate contaminants and organic matter that provide nutrients for algae growth. It raises the free chlorine levels temporarily, effectively killing off existing algae spores and reducing the potential for regrowth.

Brushing the pool surfaces is equally important because black algae can develop strong roots that attach to pool walls or surfaces, making it difficult to remove with regular cleaning. Brushing physically dislodges the algae and exposes it to the chemicals in the pool, aiding in its removal. Combining these two practices creates an environment that is less conducive to algae growth, thus minimizing future outbreaks.

The other options do not directly address the root causes of black algae formation. Lowering water temperature might not have a significant impact on algae growth, as black algae can thrive in various temperatures. Adding more stabilizer helps protect chlorine from the sun's UV rays but does not inherently combat algae. Chemical testing is crucial for maintaining water balance and ensuring that appropriate levels of sanitizer are present, but it alone won't actively prevent black algae from becoming a problem.