5 Things to Know About Pool Phosphates

Phosphates only matter if you have algae A well-maintained chlorine level kills algae before it can eat phosphates. Many pools have high phosphates and zero algae.

Pool stores push unnecessary phosphate removers They profit from selling you treatments you likely don’t need. Don’t test for phosphates unless you’re losing the battle with algae despite proper chlorine.

Test only when algae persists If you must test, use a phosphate test strip or liquid kit from Taylor or LaMotte. Results over 1000 ppb are high, but only worry if algae is present.

Treatment is simple but temporary Pour in a phosphate remover according to the bottle. Run the pump 24 hours, then clean or backwash your filter.

Fix the root cause or waste your money Runoff, fertilizers, and cheap algaecides containing phosphates will keep bringing them back. Treat the algae, not the number.