Reviving 1 year neglected pool

[jman17]

Well I'm ashamed to admit that I've neglected my pool for a year due to certain events in my life, but now I have dedicated time and in a better position to take care of the pool.

It is a 9,000 gallon free form plaster pool and the water is brown.... It is connected to a cartridge filter.

I was planning to just keep on shocking it and adding bleach until it clears up, but my co-worker told me I'm better off draining, cleaning and refilling the pool. He says I'll probably be spending $300-$400 on shock and bleach before the water gets better. I know there are lots of experts on here and wanted to know your opinions on this.

 

[linen]

Welcome to tfp, jman17

Most pools can be cleaned up without a full drain, in fact for some pools you should not drain due to potential damage. To start with take a look at this post:http://www.troublefreepool.com/turning-your-green-swamp-back-into-a-sparking-oasis-t4147.html. There is a lot of good information in poolschool, see the link in my signature.

In order for us to help you, we will need test results. See this link: http://www.troublefreepool.com/pool-school/read_before_you_post

 

[George N]

Welcome to TFP jman17!

 

[duraleigh]

Almost never a really good reason to drain a pool. The water in there is perfectly clear....you just have to get the junk out of it. I know that sounds silly, but if you think of it like that, it's helpful.

You'll have to spend some physical labor whether you drain or not and the expense of chlorine will be FAR less than your co-worker thinks.

The Cartridge filter will require frequent attention once you start to clear but it's a very doable project to clear your water without draining.

 

[HoleInOne]

I like seeing before and after pics so post em up or risk pizzing off the pool Gods. Lots of smart people here to help you.