Hello,
We just got a new above ground pool installed about three weeks ago and I am looking for some guidance as a first time pool owner. Generally, things are not so bad using pool store chemicals, I'd like to align myself more with the TFPC approach for the comfort and cost reductions. I have ordered a TF100 test kit, but in the meantime I have to rely on the occasional pool store test or test strips.
Previously, tests have been a bit all over the place and it seemed like algae was starting to proliferate. I might have also been given wrong advice at some point by increasing TA way beyond acceptable levels and then having to bring it down completely using basically a full jug (4L) of muriatic acid. Now things seems to stabilize, although all tests point to low FC levels (<0.5) and low CYA (5). Water is only very slightly cloudy without visible algae or slimy walls.
Chlorination
I've been using pucks for chlorination and I've been told to not worry about low CYA because of the way they slowly release chlorine over time, now from my understanding I could also just add some amount of bleach / liquid chlorine as well as some "stabilizer" to bring it back more in line. Could I, in that case, continue using pucks (until I run out) and carefully monitor CYA?
Cartridge filter
I've been monitoring the pressure and no major issues I believe, but I was wondering if previous algae problems could eventually lead to algae building up in the filter and requiring an early cleanup?
Valves
Lastly, not sure if it was a mistake during installation, but it does not seem like my setup has enough valves to prevent water from draining the pool while doing pump or filter maintenance. There are two diverter valves, one below the skimmer (for the main drain) and another above the pump. I would like to install additional valves, are there any preference in using gate valves over ball valves (or any other valves)? While I'm at it I'm planning to bury the pipes in ground, possibly adding a few 90° elbows, anything I should be aware of in terms of impact to flow rate?
Thanks for your help!
We just got a new above ground pool installed about three weeks ago and I am looking for some guidance as a first time pool owner. Generally, things are not so bad using pool store chemicals, I'd like to align myself more with the TFPC approach for the comfort and cost reductions. I have ordered a TF100 test kit, but in the meantime I have to rely on the occasional pool store test or test strips.
Previously, tests have been a bit all over the place and it seemed like algae was starting to proliferate. I might have also been given wrong advice at some point by increasing TA way beyond acceptable levels and then having to bring it down completely using basically a full jug (4L) of muriatic acid. Now things seems to stabilize, although all tests point to low FC levels (<0.5) and low CYA (5). Water is only very slightly cloudy without visible algae or slimy walls.
Chlorination
I've been using pucks for chlorination and I've been told to not worry about low CYA because of the way they slowly release chlorine over time, now from my understanding I could also just add some amount of bleach / liquid chlorine as well as some "stabilizer" to bring it back more in line. Could I, in that case, continue using pucks (until I run out) and carefully monitor CYA?
Cartridge filter
I've been monitoring the pressure and no major issues I believe, but I was wondering if previous algae problems could eventually lead to algae building up in the filter and requiring an early cleanup?
Valves
Lastly, not sure if it was a mistake during installation, but it does not seem like my setup has enough valves to prevent water from draining the pool while doing pump or filter maintenance. There are two diverter valves, one below the skimmer (for the main drain) and another above the pump. I would like to install additional valves, are there any preference in using gate valves over ball valves (or any other valves)? While I'm at it I'm planning to bury the pipes in ground, possibly adding a few 90° elbows, anything I should be aware of in terms of impact to flow rate?
Thanks for your help!