Easiest method to prevent algae is a split photo period. But a $5 timer from Wal-Mart and set your light to come on for 3-4 hours, then turn off for at least 2, then come on later.
So a couple hours when you're home in the morning, then when you're home in the evening. The timer takes the human forgetfulness element out of the equation.
The reason it works is that algae doesn't start growing until the lights have been on for a while, unlike plants who start photosynthesis as soon as the lights cut on.. by breaking the blocks of light up you prevent algae growth and by turning the lights off you hamper growth further by denying light. The plants have other processes that they utilize during the night.
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