Hot spring spas, as a popular activity in winter, offer us an excellent place to relax both body and mind. However, the growth of algae in hot spring pools often brings annoyance to this tranquility. Algae not only affect the aesthetics and hygiene of the hot spring water but can also negatively impact water quality, thereby affecting people’s health. This article investigates the types of algae in hot springs and their effective removal, assisting managers and users in maintaining the cleanliness and health of the springs.
Common types of algae in hot spring pools include
- Green algae, a common type in hot springs, often exhibit a green-yellow color on their surfaces. Their growth is usually accompanied by good sunlight and rich nutrients. Their presence not only affects the appearance of the hot springs but also negatively impacts the water quality.
- Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are common in hot springs. They can produce an oily substance on the water surface. Under certain conditions, like high temperatures and abundant nutrients, they proliferate rapidly. Some blue-green algae can produce toxins harmful to human health.
- Diatoms are tiny seaweeds that live in water. They are generally only visible under a microscope due to their small size. Diatoms have silica-rich cell walls with unique shapes and structures. While they generally do not significantly affect hot spring water, their presence can indicate the water’s health status.
Methods for algae removal in hot springs
Physical removal methods
Remove algae from the surface and pool walls using nets or other cleaning tools. This method, free of chemicals, is safe for humans. Or, install high-efficiency filtration devices, regularly clean the filters to remove floating algae, and keep the water clean.
Biological control methods
Introduce natural predators, such as small fish or special microorganisms that can consume or inhibit algae growth. This approach is environmentally friendly and does not adversely affect the surrounding environment or the users of the hot springs.
Chemical treatment methods
When dealing with green algae in hot spring pools, it’s essential to determine whether to use chlorine. If the pool contains chlorine, specialized swimming pool algaecides can be used; if not, P300 algaecide, safe even in environments with fish and aquatic plants, is recommended. However, benthic organisms like shrimp or crabs may die due to environmental changes caused by P300, but this is not directly related to P300 itself.
In practical application, if customers are sensitive to the smell of chlorine or concerned about its authenticity, consider using spado ozone powder. Although primarily for organic matter, it is somewhat effective against green algae. The recommended dose is 30 grams/ton, more effective in calm conditions or without surfing. In emergencies, the dose can be increased to 100 grams/ton, though the cost will rise accordingly. P300, on the other hand, is applied directly to areas with green algae growth for a more direct and noticeable effect.
When dealing with a large amount of algae using spado ozone powder, the algae and some materials in the tile joints will float to the surface. It is advisable to use a net to scoop them out, which is quicker and more effective than the overflow method. Overall, P300 is a better choice for dealing with green algae in hot spring pools, as it is more scientifically based and acts directly on the algae, helping to quickly clear the green algae from the pool. After use, it is essential to thoroughly purify and test the water to ensure the chemical residues meet safety standards.
Whether using physical, spa algaecide, or biological means, the key is continuous monitoring and timely intervention. The cleanliness and health of the hot springs are the shared responsibility of all users. We hope that these methods will provide everyone with a cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable hot spring experience.