We have yet to close the deal, but I've already received the suggested test kit from tftestkits.net.
Because I have absolutely no experience with pools (other than swimming in them and kiddie pools when the kids were young), I had the local pool company perform the inspection (22 August) when we had everyone else out. They reported the following:
I've gone over twice since then. Once to re-fill the pool and try out the new test kit. The other (today - 04 September) to backwash the sand filter in order to lower the pressure and try the test kit again. I wanted to double check my readings before posting here.
Before I present my test results and thoughts, I wanted to note that the pressure reading was about 50 psi. After backwashing (which I had to cut short because the pump was starting to suck air because it only draws from the skimmers), the pressure dropped back to about 35 psi.
I also found 5 evil white pucks (EWPs) in the skimmer basket which I left in place.
So my readings are:
First my thoughts:
And now the questions:
I still have my old house to prep and sell, so I can't devote a whole lot of time to the new house (and pool) yet.
Thanks again for a wonderful community and a great site.
Because I have absolutely no experience with pools (other than swimming in them and kiddie pools when the kids were young), I had the local pool company perform the inspection (22 August) when we had everyone else out. They reported the following:
- Light needs replacement.
- Sand filter pressure is too high at 35 psi.
- Water level is too low.
- No drain at the bottom.
- Might have some mustard algae problems.
I've gone over twice since then. Once to re-fill the pool and try out the new test kit. The other (today - 04 September) to backwash the sand filter in order to lower the pressure and try the test kit again. I wanted to double check my readings before posting here.
Before I present my test results and thoughts, I wanted to note that the pressure reading was about 50 psi. After backwashing (which I had to cut short because the pump was starting to suck air because it only draws from the skimmers), the pressure dropped back to about 35 psi.
I also found 5 evil white pucks (EWPs) in the skimmer basket which I left in place.
So my readings are:
- FC: 50 (yes, five zero)
- pH: 6.8 (don't trust these values too much b/c of high FC)
- TA: 70
- CH: ??? (after 70 drops the solution was still clear. We have very hard water here)
- CC: 0
- CYA: Approx 150-200. (It was far below the 100 line and the test kit appears to have a log scale)
First my thoughts:
- Looks like I'll need an approximately 3/4 water change. 200 / 2 / 2 --> 50ish
- The guy who is watching over the pool for the owner *loves* EWPs.
- I'll need to purchase a sump pump for the water change given that I have only skimmer drains.
- I'll probably need another backwash or deep clean to bring the pressure down.
And now the questions:
- Is it better to do the water change all at once or does that stress the pool too much? New plaster, but I see cracks and gaps that I'm saving for another post.
- Is it normal to not have a bottom drain?
- Given that I don't have a bottom drain, I think I'll need to purchase a pump for winterizing. Correct? Any suggestions for a pump?
- My wife wonders if it will be safe to swim in the pool given the readings? We have a lot of dirt in the bottom that might well be algae.
I still have my old house to prep and sell, so I can't devote a whole lot of time to the new house (and pool) yet.
Thanks again for a wonderful community and a great site.