ALK & HRD low, does it mater?

[Jeff405]

Using a HTH 6way test kit, here are the results.
CL/BR 1/2
PH 7.2
ALK 30
HRD 60
CYA 30

Looks like alk & hrd are low, how do I raise them up?
I'm fixing to add salt and then get the saltwater system going, but trying to get all my numbers right first.

 

[UN1017]

First off, you've got to get some bleach in there to get your FC up. For a CYA of 30, you never want it below 2. Also, you can ignore the Br portion of the test block. It only for Bromine (spas).

You can take a little spin through Pool School to see what your levels should be and what chemicals to use.

Also, be prepared to bump your CYA up once you fire up the SWG.

 

[JasonLion]

Hardness low is just fine in a vinyl liner pool, but alkalinity low should be adjusted up.

 

[Jeff405]

Forgot to mention this was after having about 5 kids swimming for a couple hours, before they got in the FC was high from shocking it.

Ok, so bleach, alk, and cya need to come up. If I add bleach will that raise any of the others? Thanks

 

[Richard320]

Forgot to mention this was after having about 5 kids swimming for a couple hours, before they got in the FC was high from shocking it.

Ok, so bleach, alk, and cya need to come up. If I add bleach will that raise any of the others? Thanks

No.

Bleach raises FC
Baking Soda raises Alkalinity
Cyanuric Acid aka stabilizer raises CYA

This article explains things in more depth, and also tells the proper way to add each