Hair Algae

[ColinM50]

We've got a 160 litre Juwel tank and filter and tropical fish. Had it for about four years but over the last 8-9 months we've had a major infestation of hair algae. Google it if you're not aware what it is, but it's really spoiled our tank to the extent that we lost a lot of fish and plants. I've fitted new (£170) LED lights, several major water changes, tried different chemicals as recommended by Pets at Home and a local fish specialist, Maidenhead Aquatics, but can't get rid of the stuff. Every day I rip a good handful out of the tank and it's peeing me off.

Anyone any ideas please 'cos SWMBO's suggesting we get rid of the whole shebang.

TIA

[Common Porpoise]

does the tank get a lot of natural light? next thing to look at is your nitrate and phosphate readings (plant food).
It is quite common for supply water to have undesirable nitrate levels which reduces the effectiveness of water changes.
It could be worth trying a pond treatment such as aqua source resolve which is highly effective as it also binds phosphates so starving the algae of nutrients.
Another thing that can help is cultivating an anaerobic bacteria colony that will help control nitrate levels. there is a media called marine pure (which can also be used in freshwater) that is designed for this , though other porous ceramic media can also be used.