Test Results, no CYA?

mnewdigate · Jul 14, 2016

Hello,
I have a pool that hasn't been opened in a few years. It was not covered and I was finally able to get all the leaves out, but the water was still dark. I have been filtering and adding bags of shock (1# 65%) and have added a total of 12 over the course of a week. The water has turned a gray/blue color, but is very cloudy. The filter (Sand Hayward) needs backflushed every hour or so as the pressure goes from 12psi to 20psi and the amount of water being pumped is barely any. I was told to SLAM the pool so went and bought a nice test kit made by Taylor (Rebranded as Leslie's) and below are my results. The CYA test I wasn't able to get any reading as I was always able to clearly see the black circle. Does this sound normal? Anyway here are my results.

.5 ppm free chl
5ppm total chlorine
4.5 combined chl
6.8 ph
80ppm total alkality
170ppm calcium hardness

pooldv · Jul 14, 2016

Yes, it is normal for there to be no CYA in the pool after a few years of being closed. Sounds like you are using Cal-hypo which also doesn't add CYA. Add 30 ppm of CYA in a sock or knee high as shown here, Pool School - Recommended Pool Chemicals and SLAM Process the pool according to these instructions, SLAM Process, don't skip any steps.

smforte · Jul 14, 2016

And you need a good test kit. The one you have wont do. Either Taylor TF 100 or Taylor k 2006c

MarianParoo · Jul 14, 2016

I also don't like that pH being so low. Can you get some 20 Mule Team borax to raise it up?

mnewdigate · Jul 14, 2016

Thanks for the suggestions. I just wanted to verify I wasn't crazy with not getting any readings. The test kit is the Taylor K-2006, it is just rebranded as a Leslie's product. I will look for that Borax product as well to increase the PH. Thanks again.

VinDeeLoo · Jul 14, 2016

smforte said:
And you need a good test kit. The one you have wont do. Either Taylor TF 100 or Taylor k 2006c

I thought the Leslie's Kit is a Taylor K-2006. It is one listed in PoolSchool.

mnewdigate · Jul 15, 2016

It is, the box says "Made by Taylor" on it. Everything is the same inside, just a different label on top.

smforte · Jul 19, 2016

Could be Taylor 2005. Most Leslie's don't sell the 2006. Does it have the FAS/DPD powered test? That's what you'll need to slam

VinDeeLoo · Jul 21, 2016

My Taylor K 2006 is from Leslie's and has the FAS/DPD test.