Welcome to TFP!!
I guess my first suggestion is to please
edit your signature and add the following information so we can better frame our answers to you.
- The size of your pool in gallons
- If your pool is an AG (above ground) or IG (in ground)
- If it's IG, tell us if it's vinyl, plaster/pebble, or fiberglass
- The type filter you have (sand, DE, cartridge)
- If you know, tell us the make and model of your pump and filter.
- List any other equipment you have: SWG, second pump, etc.
- Please mention if you fill the pool from a well or are currently on water restrictions
As a new pool owner I'm guessing that you have no history of how the pool was maintained. We find that many pools are maintained by the "pool store" method. That means take a sample of water to the pool store, they analyze it in their magic machine and sell a bunch of stuff to throw in the water.
We base our pool care system on accurate testing and only adding what the pool needs, when it needs it. To do that you need your own accurate test kit.
I suggest you take control of your pool and order a
TF100. That kit will probably give you enough reagents for a couple of years normal use.
The only other real option for a test kit is a Taylor K-2006. Be careful comparing prices because the K-2006 comes in sizes, designated by a letter. The basic K-2006 has .75oz bottles. You need to get the K-2006-C to get the larger bottles that you want. Even then it is a little short on the reagent & powder for the FAS/DPD test.
I also have the
SpeedStir and
Sample Sizer. They speed testing and accuracy.
What we find is that pools maintained by the pool store method have underlying chemical imbalances which may necessitate a large exchange of water, so the vacuum to waste may not end up being such a bad idea.