What is a common sign of algae growth in a pool?

A common sign of algae growth in a pool is cloudy water. When algae proliferate, they can cause the water to become murky or cloudy due to the large number of tiny algae particles suspended in it. This cloudiness is often one of the first visual indicators that water quality has declined, which may prompt the need for treatment to eliminate the algae and restore clarity.

While other signs like stained pool walls could indicate algae as well, cloudy water is more immediately noticeable and denotes a broader issue that requires attention. A strong chemical smell often relates to imbalanced water chemistry, specifically the presence of chloramines, rather than direct evidence of algae growth. Similarly, a strong current is not related to algae, as it typically pertains to the pool's water circulation system or environmental factors not connected to biological growth.