First test.

[crs16]

Just finished filling pool for the first time. Took the test strips we have (insta test 5), I know the TF100 is on its way.

Fc 0
Tc 0.5
TA 80
PH 7.6
TH 50

So according to pool calc, my pool is just under 5k gallons.

So I added 1 quart of bleach to get FC to 3.5
I added a very small amount of muriatic acid (like 1 oz)
And added 1 lb of solid CYA (didn't realize there is liquid available, my lowe's only had dry)

My pump is running, it is a 2650 gph pump so in under 2 hours wi cycle through.

Do I wait 2 hours to test again?

 

[Butterfly]

How did you add the CYA?

 

[JasonLion]

Wait one hour, with the pump running before testing again.

There was no need to lower the PH, though it shouldn't hurt either.

 

[crs16]

I've got it in a sock by the skimmer. That is what the bottle said to do. I know that it takes more time for the solid cya to completely dissolve, so I'll be monitoring my chlorine levels closely for a while.

 

[Butterfly]

I've got it in a sock by the skimmer. That is what the bottle said to do. I know that it takes more time for the solid cya to completely dissolve, so I'll be monitoring my chlorine levels closely for a while.

I had no idea the sock method was on the bottle!

 

[crs16]

Thanks Jason and Butterfly.

Actually I think the bottle said to pour it in the skimmer. My husband took one look at those small particles and told me to use a sock. :lol:

 

[Butterfly]

Smart guy :lol:

 

[crs16]

Got my tf100 today. Yay!!!

Results
FC 4.5
CC 0.5
CYA 25
pH 7.5

I thought from the test strip and the Taylors test that the FC level was closer to 3 than 5. Interesting.

The only thing I'm even mildly concerned about was the CYA. I estimated for 30 and got 25. I live in Albuquerque where it is hot and sunny. I'm trying to figure out if I need to add more CYA. Opinions? The kids have been playing in the pool a lot more with friends, so I've been adding 2.5 cups of 6% bleach to keep the FC up the last 2 days. Would it be worth it to add enough CYA to bring it into the 30 to 40 range?

 

[Butterfly]

With your location, I suggest you go ahead and get your CYA up to 50.

 

[crs16]

Ah yes. I'll go do that. Thanks Butterfly! You have been very helpful!

 

[supertune]

Make sure to follow the CYA/chlorine chart when you up the CYA to 50.
FC chlorine will need to be in the 4-6 range all the time.

 

[crs16]

Yeah, I did check that, so I added more bleach to bring me up to 6 last night.

Thanks everyone! It is looking like a fine weekend for swimming!

 

[duraleigh]

Cindy,

You are off to a very good start with an excellent understanding of your pool water. It is always a pleasure to read a thread where someone has done their homework as well as you have.

Please don't be so nice to Butterfly or she will soon have to order a larger size sunbonnet

 

[Butterfly]

Please don't be so nice to Butterfly or she will soon have to order a larger size sunbonnet

 

[crs16]

Cindy,

Please don't be so nice to Butterfly or she will soon have to order a larger size sunbonnet

Oh, Dave! You better watch out for Butterfly.

 

[Butterfly]

heehee

 

[DSALRAM]

Just finished filling pool for the first time. Took the test strips we have (insta test 5), I know the TF100 is on its way.

Fc 0
Tc 0.5
TA 80
PH 7.6
TH 50

So according to pool calc, my pool is just under 5k gallons.

So I added 1 quart of bleach to get FC to 3.5
I added a very small amount of muriatic acid (like 1 oz)
And added 1 lb of solid CYA (didn't realize there is liquid available, my lowe's only had dry)

My pump is running, it is a 2650 gph pump so in under 2 hours wi cycle through.

Do I wait 2 hours to test again?

Did you buy your pool locally? I am also in ABQ and in the market for a 15'x52" round.

 

[crs16]

Did you buy your pool locally? I am also in ABQ and in the market for a 15'x52" round.

I pm'd you.