So yesterday, I decide to take a water sample to my local pool and spa shop (Sweetwater), mainly to see what my TDS numbers are. All results looked pretty much up to par with my testing (I use Taylor K-2005 kit) except the Alkalinity.
I'm getting a result of 130 TA with my k-2005 (tested again to confirm right after the pool shop), but in Sweetwater they're getting 100 TA and 80 AA (adjusted Alk, they said AA is based on TDS and CYA numbers and is a more accurate number to use then TA). So basically, They're telling my alk is low, their range is 120-150 for AA and basically I need to raise it. They told me their kits and formulas are all from BioGuard since this is the main product they sell. They tried to sell me their Alk increaser product which is BioGuard Maintain balance pak 100 12lbs bag and told me I need to use the entire bag to get the alk back up.
I did not buy the product and wanted to check with you guys first.
First i'm pretty hesitant to even do this as i'm not sure of an accuracy of their test.
Second, even assuming that I do need to increase, looks like this product is nothing more then baking soda anyway (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate: 100%) but with $26 tag, whereas I can get a 13.5lbs bag of baking soda in Costco for $7.
As always any feedback is much appreciated.
I'm getting a result of 130 TA with my k-2005 (tested again to confirm right after the pool shop), but in Sweetwater they're getting 100 TA and 80 AA (adjusted Alk, they said AA is based on TDS and CYA numbers and is a more accurate number to use then TA). So basically, They're telling my alk is low, their range is 120-150 for AA and basically I need to raise it. They told me their kits and formulas are all from BioGuard since this is the main product they sell. They tried to sell me their Alk increaser product which is BioGuard Maintain balance pak 100 12lbs bag and told me I need to use the entire bag to get the alk back up.
I did not buy the product and wanted to check with you guys first.
First i'm pretty hesitant to even do this as i'm not sure of an accuracy of their test.
Second, even assuming that I do need to increase, looks like this product is nothing more then baking soda anyway (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate: 100%) but with $26 tag, whereas I can get a 13.5lbs bag of baking soda in Costco for $7.
As always any feedback is much appreciated.