Preparing pool for the first time help!

[PsychoPanda]

Hi everyone!

I have a new ag pool that has just been set up two days ago. I have NO chemicals or testing kit to start with and am trying to stay on the lower end of our budget.

Where exactly does one start when obviously so unprepared?

 

[JVTrain]

A proper test kit is the most important tool for maintaining your pool. It cannot be done without it. Check out the recommended test kits in Pool School. Pool School - Test Kits Compared The TF-100 is the best $70 you'll ever spend on your pool (see link in my signature).

You'll need cyanuric acid (aka stablizer or CYA). You'll need muriatic acid to lower pH. You'll need bleach to sanitize the pool.

Most importantly, spend some time in Pool School, starting with ABCs of Pool Water Chemistry.

 

[pooldv]

Welcome to TFP!

This another good place to read
TFPC for Beginners

 

[PsychoPanda]

Thank you!

Currently we have:

Chemicals
10% Pool Chlorine ("bleach")
clorox ph down
baking soda
borax
clorox stabilizer

Test Kit
Taylor Technologies K-2005 - DPD Complete Chlorine Kit

I have been using the pool calculator to help me figure out how much of what to add.

 

[JVTrain]

If you add a FAS-DPD chlorine test, you'll essentially have a K-2006 kit, which as all the needed test. TFTestkits.net

You need this test to accurately test for FC and CC up to 50 ppm, which is required any time you need to deal with algae.

 

[PsychoPanda]

I'll get that as soon as possible. I have been in the hospital with gallstones and acute pancreatitis :sad:for a week and when I got home the pool was turning yellow/green!! I added chlorine right away, and that was the only thing out of whack according to my current test kit.

 

[cj3737]

Chlorine is a good start.. thatll help keep the algae down. Post a full set of results when you can and we'll help you get it under control