Troble opening pool

[pool idiot]

We have been keeping chlorine tablets in the skimmer bucket. We put several pounds of shock in the pool and it cleared up pretty well. After a few days we tested the water . Chlorine is low (0.6 free chlorine) Ph is 6.4 Alkalinity is 40. Pool is getting cloudy and green. What should we do?

 

[Casey]

Welcome to TFP.

First, you can start by educating yourself. Read these and order a test kit, namely the TF100.

ABC's of Pool Water Chemistry
Recommended Pool Chemicals
How to Chlorinate Your Pool
Chlorine CYA Chart
Test Kit Comparison
Recommended Levels

There are more links in Pool School, upper top right of every page.

 

[PAGirl]

What method are you using to test?

 

[pool idiot]

We took the water to a pool store (per instructions from the guy who opened the pool for us). We also have 6 way test strips.

 

[pooldv]

Neither of those options will provide reliable results. Check this article, Pool School - Test Kits Compared and get a good test kit. I use the TF100 from TFTestkits.net

 

[jaduck]

Your first priority would be to order a recommended test kit. This is absolutely required...we can't help you get your pool crystal clear without out a good test kit. The best value would be a kit from TFTeskits.net. While waiting on the kit please read and re-read Pool School.

Once your test kit arrives perform a complete test battery. Post the results and you will be off to the races.

In the mean time STOP with the pucks and Shock! They may do you more harm than good. I don't think it would be a problem to add a gallon of regular bleach (Not the fancy stuff, easy pour, or smell good kind) per day until your kit arrives.

 

[PAGirl]

Trust me, the amount you save from not buying expensive chemicals more than pays for the kit!