I have been shocking by best guess estimate with a OTO/pH kit from Wal-Mart. I know about the TF-100 and other kits, but I am unable to afford any of them just yet. I am out of work, hence I have time work on a pool
However, I should be back working within the next week.
I have been using bleach, which is working quite well. Since my last post, the water is now sparkling clear. I have been shocking with bleach at dusk and filtering about half the day.
Also, I am not able to afford CYA just yet, either. I do have Borax and Baking Soda on hand. I have only used either sporadically and in small amounts (no more than two pounds, at most). I have not added any of the alkali's recently.
I am also very rigorous when it comes to keeping the pool surface skimmed and I frequently brush the sides and bottom.
So, given that I don't have any succinct chemistry data, yet. Nor, am I able to add CYA, yet. Is there a good "rule of thumb" to follow to feel reasonably sure the chemistry is holding up? Since I am using the OTO test, how can I use this to make reasonable determinations?
Again, the pool is sparkling crystal clear, algae free, and I have swum it several times over the last few weeks.