Black / Brown algae

[David Kol]

We have a 24 ft above ground pool that started to have this problem of blackish patches on the bottom on the pool mid last season (3rd year for the pool). Adding chlorine seemed to help remove the blackness for a few days. We had hoped that when we opened the pool this year things would be better. This was not the case. The bottom of the pool is very dark and reminds one of the scum you see on an uncleaned sink or tub. (( nThis is the worse it has been when opened in the spring)) Vacuuming the pool easily removes the top layer (almost a soot like substance), but leaves a layer the requires somel elbow grease on the vacuum pool to loosen. The blackish patches that were there last year are still there. We have been giving a ton of advice that has failed to produce any good results. We have always thought that we took good care of the pool and feel this is not from neglect. Before we get to deep in this year, i decided to search the internet and find a forum and ask for HELP. This is where I'm at as of today. Opened the pool 2 days ago, and added water to a level that would operate the filter. Started to vacuum. This has started to clean up the bottom of the pool. Added 2, 2 -1/2 inch diameter chlorine pucks and 4 oz. of algecide last night. The filter has been on for 2 days. I've come to the conclusion that i'm not going to lick this problem alone, and could use some help.

Thanks in advance for any help.

David