24,500 Gallon IG Pool
Cartridge Filter
Vinyl
FC 6
CC 0
pH 7.6
TA 210 (non-adjusted)
CYA 90
I just bought this home, and recently converted to BBB instead of the pool company chemicals.
It took some time to get the PH up to 7.6 using Borax (20 Mule Team) - it was as low as 6.8. It took a good 8 boxes to get there over time.
When swimming, I get a burning sensation in the eyes, and the water smells (to me) like borax. It's a little foamy when the pump starts up in the morning & when you jump in the water. Otherwise, it is crystal clear.
I had the pool company test the water, and they said my TA was 170, and 80 after adjusting for CYA. I've tested the TA with two different kits and got the same results. I completely believe their test is more accurate than mine, but I thought the adjustment was only for 1/3 of the CYA and not the entire amount? They said it's the entire amount, and wanted to sell me more alkalinity increaser.
My understanding is that the burning sensation in my eyes can definitely come from a low TA, but everything I've seen/read says that my TA is high.
My questions are:
1. Is it normal for the water to "smell" a bit like Borax or is it likely I've put too much in (I haven't tested for Borates)?
2. What's the correct way to adjust for TA?
Thanks!
Cartridge Filter
Vinyl
FC 6
CC 0
pH 7.6
TA 210 (non-adjusted)
CYA 90
I just bought this home, and recently converted to BBB instead of the pool company chemicals.
It took some time to get the PH up to 7.6 using Borax (20 Mule Team) - it was as low as 6.8. It took a good 8 boxes to get there over time.
When swimming, I get a burning sensation in the eyes, and the water smells (to me) like borax. It's a little foamy when the pump starts up in the morning & when you jump in the water. Otherwise, it is crystal clear.
I had the pool company test the water, and they said my TA was 170, and 80 after adjusting for CYA. I've tested the TA with two different kits and got the same results. I completely believe their test is more accurate than mine, but I thought the adjustment was only for 1/3 of the CYA and not the entire amount? They said it's the entire amount, and wanted to sell me more alkalinity increaser.
My understanding is that the burning sensation in my eyes can definitely come from a low TA, but everything I've seen/read says that my TA is high.
My questions are:
1. Is it normal for the water to "smell" a bit like Borax or is it likely I've put too much in (I haven't tested for Borates)?
2. What's the correct way to adjust for TA?
Thanks!