Which method is most effective for controlling black algae?

Superchlorination is the most effective method for controlling black algae because it involves raising the chlorine levels in the pool significantly above the normal range for a short period of time. Black algae are particularly resilient and can be difficult to eradicate with standard chlorination alone. When the chlorine levels are elevated through superchlorination, it destroys not only the algae itself but also the protective layer that black algae form around their colonies, allowing for more effective penetration and elimination of the microorganisms.

In contrast, regular brushing is an essential maintenance practice that helps to dislodge black algae from surfaces, but it does not inherently eliminate it since the underlying spores can remain viable. Frequent backwashing is useful for maintaining water clarity and quality by removing debris and contaminants from the filter, but it does not directly address algae blooms. Using algaecides can be effective but is typically a supplementary measure rather than a standalone solution. For black algae, relying solely on algaecides may not yield sufficient results without superchlorination to target the tough outer layer of the algae. Therefore, superchlorination emerges as the most comprehensive approach to effectively combat black algae in pools.