Support Center

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for the product to work?

The timing of effectiveness can vary. Most customers see results within 2 weeks, but some customers have not seen any change until up to 6 weeks after first use. Please note that as a natural product it will not give you overnight results!

Does it work on saltwater tanks?

You can use Algae Control in saltwater tanks, but we do not recommend using them in reef tanks yet as we are still undergoing long term testing with corals.

Is it safe for snails?

Algae Control is safe for snails.

Bigger tanks?

We are coming out with a new product thatis more concentrated specifically for larger tanks and bodies of water. Algae ControlX (5X stronger) will be released in April of 2024.

What types of algae does it work on?

Algae Control works on various types of algae, including black beard algae. We recommend spot treating Algae Control directly on this algae for best results.

Where can I find Algae Control product reviews?

To see how people feel about our product, feel free to check our reviews on our website. Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have!

How does this compare to carbon add?

Placeholder answer for testing purposes.

How do I use this product properly?

We recommend starting with a water change in your tank. Then you will want to find the correct dosing for your tank- we recommend starting with 1oz of Algae Control for every 10 gallons of water in your tank. You can then simply pour in this amount into your tank or spot treat this dose directly onto algal blooms with a dropper.

Why should I use this instead of normal maitenance

We absolutely think basic maintenance is key for a clear aquarium, but for people who have an existing algal bloom issue, Algae Control helps boost these practice's effectiveness.

How does it work?

We use allelochemicals that plants produce to mitigate algae growth in natural ecosystems. We extract these compounds from the plants and bottle them up so you can use them in your aquarium

Can I use it for dipping aquatic plants?

Yes! Algae Control works great for a plant dip. Simply dillute our solution into the recepticle you will be doing the dip in, let sit overnight, and brush off the dead algae before putting the plants back into your tank!

Order not recieved

We are so sorry for the inconvience! Please email support@greenwaterlabs.com with your order number and any other relvant details so we can figure out what happened with your order.

How big are the bottles?

All bottles of Algae Control are 16oz. Algae Assassin comes in a 32oz bottle.

What is in this bottle?

Our products contain our proprietary plant extract which is made from allelochemicals that we collect in our Seattle facility. We also add a little bit of acetic acid (vinegar) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) to help preserve our plant compounds to provide you with a 2 year long shelf life! For more details please see the SDS for both products on the product page.

Black Beard Algae and other Hair Algae?

If you are having trouble treating black beard algae, you may want to consider increasing your dose of Algae Control and doing spot treatments with a dropper directly on these areas.

Does it have copper?

Algae Control is free of copper, ammonia, and peroxides!

Will my snails have anything to eat?

Algae Control is designed to help prevent unwanted blooms of algae in your tank, but it will never kill all the algae in your aquarium. Algae is a very reliant organism and is also necessary for your biological system. If you are concered with eliminating too much algae then please monitor the growth and use the product as needed.

Why does it smell like vinegar?

Our products contain under 1% of acetic acid (vinegar) to assist with the preservation of our active proprietary plant extract.

Does this impact moss?

Yes, you can use Algae Control on tanks with moss, but please be wary when increasing the dose. Overtime its likely that our solution will prevent further growth of your moss.

Can I use these products in my pond?

You can use Algae Control in ponds and other bodies of water!

Is Algae Control considered an algaecide?

by verbal definition the nature of the product is pesticidal because of the standards set by the EPA. Our allelochemicals do not come from Cyanobacteria and we are working to show that not all products that make these claims are toxic like traditional pesticides.

Safe to use in a water trough?

Algae Control can be used safely in a water trough for animals and other use cases. At recommended dosages, it is safe for your animals to drink.

How to buy?

Head to the product page on our website and select Buy Now!

Is it available in stores?

Algae Control is available at a few select retailers around the United States, if you would like to see our products in your local store, please contact us so we can reach out to them!

How is this different than other tank cleaners?

Our solution contains plant based compounds that are found in most natural ecosystems, traditional algae cleaners like bleach, chlorine, and copper are quite harmful to more than just algae. We created our products so you can have a safe alternative to use around your home.

Safe to use with liquid fertilizer?

You can use liquid fertilizer at the same time as Algae Control, but we recommend adding in these products at the same time to reduce the risk of excess nutrients in your tank.

Safe for axelotl?

Yes, you can use Algae Control with axelotl

How long before the bottle expires?

Algae Control has a 2 year shelf life when stored in a cool, dark place.

How long does shipping take?

Shipping usually takes 1 to 2 days on week days, but may take a few more days on holidays and weekends!

Does carbon affect the effectiveness?

Carbon can impact the effecctiveness of Algae Control because Algae Control is made of natural materials that carbon often targets.

Will this stain my acrylic tank?

Algae Control will not stain your tank.

Can I use this with UV sterilization?

While it is safe to use Algae Control in a system with UV sterilization, it may make the product less effective.

What is the dose for Algae Assassin?

Algae Assassin can be applied as needed onto surfaces with unwanted algae or moss. At minimum you just need to cover the area with a thin layer of solution, for heavy moss areas you may need to apply several times for sufficient results.

How much is in a capful?

3 caps full of Algae Control is equal to 1oz.

Does it work on diatoms?

Algae Control is effective on diatoms with time.

Will my protein skimmer effect the product?

We have not done much testing on Algae Control in tanks with a protien skimmer, but it will likely negatively impact the performance of Algae Control.

Is Algae Control different from excel?

Exel uses derivatives of glutaraldehyde. While we use natural allelochemicals that exist specifically to target algae.

How much area does one bottle cover per squarefoot ?

Depending on how much build up you have, Algae Asssassin should cover 500-1000sq. feet.

Can I use this on my car?

Yes! Algae Assassin is safe for almost all surfaces except for copper.

Will it harm my other plants?

Algae Assassin is safe for use around your garden and other plants.

Is it safe to use around pets and kids?

Algae Assassin is safe for use around pets and children. It is not intended for consumption however.

Should I wait for a non-rainy day to use Algae Assassin?

Algae Assassin should be applied when dry, once the solution has dried onto the surface its safe for rain or rinsing.

Will it corrode any surfaces?

A core benefit of Algae Assassin is that it eliminates the need to pressure spray and is not corrosive to your deck, patio, siding, walkways or other materials. Algae Assassin is safe for all surfaces except copper as it may cause discoloration through a reaction with the metal. All other metals will not be effected.

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