Hardness in Puerto rico

Jump to latest Follow Reply
K

kemmer

Member
Jan 5, 2024
6
Puerto Rico
Hi All,

We have a 22k gallon pool in Puerto Rico with a salt system. The pool is usually always perfect but I started noticing that the CYA and hardness is off.

We previously had issues with the pool turning purple. I suspect it was the excess CYA from the previous chlorine puck. I can’t tell if it’s too high or too low based on the test strip. I’d hate to add more just to turn the pool purple again. We haven’t drained it, but there’s a chance we could have diluted it with rain and overflowing.

The hardness is a similar scenario. We can’t tell if it’s too high or too low.

The second picture shows our pool test strip next to a tapwater test strip.

What do you think we need to do?
IMG_8206.jpeg
 

Attachments

  • IMG_8205.jpeg
    IMG_8205.jpeg
    519.6 KB · Views: 1
Welcome to TFP.

I think you need to get a good test kit and trash the guess strips.

Either the Taylor K-2006C + K1766 or the TFT Test Kits

When you get your test kit post the results and we can talk.

While waiting for your test kit you might want to review...

www.troublefreepool.com

Pool Care Basics Archives

Your one-stop shop for all things TFP to include: ABCs of Water Chemistry, Recommended Chemicals/Levels, Test Kits, Troubleshooting, and much more!
www.troublefreepool.com www.troublefreepool.com
 
Circling back on this.
Hardness - 50ppm
Alkalinity - 50ppm
CYA - Near zero

Would Sodium bicarbonate work to raise both the hardness and Alkalinity or should I use Calcium Chloride as well?

For the CYA - i was thinking just adding stabilizer
 
Your prioritizing the wrong stuff. Tell us your Chlorine content and pH. Then, based on that we can help get your CYA correct and then last, get your CH and TA in the correct ranges.

Don't use sodium bicarb for anything.
 
kemmer said:
I can’t tell if it’s too high or too low based on the test strip.
Click to expand...
And there lies the issue with test strips. Even if you had a color, they're just far too vague.

We dose FC per the 10s of CYA. 0, 30 to 50, 100, 150 and 240 doesn't tell you squat. Without the precision you simply can't have your FC in the correct range, and you're on the bullet train to Swampville.

Welcome to TFP !!!
 
  • Like
Reactions: JamesW
pH is at 7.5
Total chlorine is 3ppm
Click to expand...
Based on that, leave those results alone and bring CYA to 60 ppm, CH to 300 and TA around 60.

However, as indicated above the results from test strips are completely erratic and I would toss them out until you decide tp get accurate test kit. Swimming Pool Test Kits Compared I would add the Pool Store testing is equally unreliable
 
  • Like
Reactions: Newdude and JamesW

Enjoying this content?

Support TFP with a donation.

Give Support
What test kit are you using?

What type of pool?

duraleigh said:
Based on that, leave those results alone and bring CYA to 60 ppm, CH to 300 and TA around 60.
Click to expand...

What don’t you like the recommendations in post #9?
 
kemmer said:
It’s a fiberglass pool coated in aqua guard 5000.
Click to expand...
Ok so it's a painted fiberglass pool, and calcium isn't needed.

Raise the TA by 10 with baking soda.
Get 30+ CYA in there or you won't be able to hold any chlorine.

Maintain enough chlorine to replace the daily loss and remain free and clear above minimum. (You'll notice the chart isn't test strip friendly) lc_chart.jpg

Having been without CYA and chlorine, you likely have algae brewing. Overnight Chlorine Loss Test and if you fail, SLAM Process
 
Thanks. Also wanted to note that the pool is a salt water pool. We never really had algae issues since switching over.

Here’s a shot of the current state. We noticed it’s just a little cloudy compared to usual.

Pool drain is about 9’ deep for reference.

Haven’t vacuumed in a few days.

The black specks are apart of the finish. Previous owner liked it and paid extra for it 🤯
 

Attachments

  • IMG_8494.jpeg
    IMG_8494.jpeg
    328.5 KB · Views: 4
You must log in or register to reply here.
Thread Status
Hello , This thread has been inactive for over 60 days. New postings here are unlikely to be seen or responded to by other members. For better visibility, consider Starting A New Thread.
Top Bottom
Back
Jump to latest Follow Reply