Hi Randy,
welcome! Well you came to the right place if you're looking for help. I will comment on a pool cleaner in a moment.
First though, I would suggest, that if you intend on keeping your pool in good shape and Trouble Free, then you need a good test kit. here is a link to the recommended ones by TFP. they are the best on the free market.
I would personally recommend the TF100. Its the best bang for the buck.
www.tftestkits.net
While its too cold to swim, go ahead and familiarize yourself with what different water parameters you need to know about. The ABC's is a great place to start.
http://www.troublefreepool.com/content/123-abc-of-pool-water-chemistry
And here is a handy thing that no pool owner should be deprived of. You are going to need this beauty.
http://www.troublefreepool.com/calc.html
And here is a link to some handy references, most of which you will be referring to often.
http://www.troublefreepool.com/content/116-handy-reference-material
As for pool cleaners, my personal experience is with the Dolphin pool cleaner. Lots of folks here will give them a big thumbs up. Dolphin as well as other lines have various models, so the best advice on a Robot I can give is - research the options and determine what you want and can live without. The more options, the more $.
here is a link to the TFP forum dedicated to pool cleaners. Lots of info in there.
http://www.troublefreepool.com/forums/50-Pool-Cleaners
If your pool is plumbed for a pressure side cleaner, the Polaris makes a good suction side ones. Models 280 and 380 have a long track record of success.
If you consider a suction side cleaner, the best review are of the ThePoolCleaner. Yes, all one word. Google is your friend when it comes to ThePoolCleaner.
And if this isnt enough and you get bored, click on "The Deep End" forum. But fair warning, be prepared to be either dazzled by brilliance, or baffled by BS! LOL. But whatever the case may be, enjoy.
hope this helps get you started,
Welcome to TFP!!!
