Water Chemistry

Phosphates and Algae Food, Explained

A pool can have perfect chlorine and pH and still grow algae fast, and phosphates are usually why. Riverstone and First Colony both require architectural control committee approval for pool and backyard plans, including review of fencing and setbacks relative to the deed restrictions, which is handled during the design phase.

Luxury raised spa under a draped pergola structure

Algae's Fertilizer

Phosphates enter pool water from fertilizer runoff, decaying leaves, certain tap water sources, and even some pool chemicals themselves. They don't sanitize or harm swimmers directly, but they function as a nutrient source that lets algae grow faster than a given chlorine level can keep up with.

Testing and Reducing Phosphates

A phosphate test kit (separate from a standard chlorine/pH kit) is the only way to know the level; a phosphate remover product can bring it down, but it treats a symptom, keeping yard debris and fertilizer runoff out of the pool in the first place reduces how often that treatment is needed.