Thanks for all of the information. Here's a few tips that I would love to share with you. I'll lay them out in a bullet format:
-Please consider using a drop based test kit(such as the TF100). Test strips are very inaccurate. When balancing your pool chemically, accuracy is key.
-When it comes to chemicals for your pool, consider what we call the "BBB" method. BBB stands for Bleach, Baking Soda, and Borax. You use regular store bought bleach for your chlorine input. Bleach and liquid chlorine you would buy at a pool store have the same active ingredient which is sodium hypochlorite. Literally the same chemical just different packaging.
-For PH up, Borax will do the trick or soda ash. Both, just like with Bleach, are literally the same chemical as "PH up" sold at the pool store. Just cheaper!
-Baking soda is another over the counter alternative to "alkalinity up" sold at pool stores. Same chemical, just cheaper.
-I'm not sure if you are currently using powdered shocks or chlorine tablets, but all of these add chemicals you either don't need period, or don't want too much of. For instance, tablets let off Stabilizer(cyanauric acid) as a by product constantly as they dissolve in your pool. Too much of this, and your chlorine loses its effectiveness.
All of this information and more can be found if you click the "pool school" link on the top right hand corner of this site. It's filled with priceless information to make your life a whole lot easier(and cheaper) when managing your pool. Please read it you will not regret it.
