Newbie w/ Cl issues...HELP

[Mamacita03]

Morning! I'm a new convert to the TFP way of pool mgmt & have been pool schooling myself. This is our 4th season w/ the pool...my issue is that I started the "old" way...ie took water to the pool store for analysis, & used Aquacheck strips to monitor at home. When pool was opened, 2 bottles liquid "shock" we're used, along w/ 1 bottle of algae inhibitor. I added alkalinity & ph up as per the pool store. Also had them check my Phosphorous level as it was sky high last yr; level was 300, so I added corresponding amt of Phosfree (which I now know is unnecessary!). Used 3" trichlor pucks in my chlorinator & turned it to 2...vacuumed...water clear & sparkly...on my test strips I was getting a TC reading, but no FC reading. Added oxysheen to no avail. CYA per the test strip was ~ 90, pool store had it at 100. Did not want to use the smart shock...that's when I came to your site. Have since added 1 gallon 6% diluted bleach while waiting for my TF-100 test kit to arrive. No more chemicals added. Turned off the chlorinator last nite, & here are the readings from my wonderful drop kit: (heat pump is on), water crystal clear and sparkling...

temp 81
Cl: 3
pH: 7.5
TA: 100
CH: 175
FC: 1.5
CC: 3.0
TC: 4.5
CYA: 70

Oh please help me balance my pool! I am a nurse, & am sick about it! (But am wicked happy about this "chemistry" kit!). Just want my swimmers & equipment to be safe---Thanks!

 

[Defgufman]

Your Cya is fine, but maintain a target FC of 8 to be safe. Your cc could be indicating a SLAM SOON.

- - - Updated - - -

Get that FC up asap

 

[Azgirl71]

Welcome to TFP methods and your new test kit! As already stated. Get you FC up ASAP.

 

[Texas Splash]

I agree. Focus on moderate chlorine additions (bleach only) for now until your kit comes-in and you can confirm all readings accurately. From there, post some new TF-100 numbers and we'll keep you on-track. As you may already know ... don't waste your $$ on fancy pool store chemicals. Start reading-up on the SLAM process and chlorine/CYA chart (links below) for when your kit arrives. You did the right thing by ordering that TF-100. I love mine and it's made my job MUCH easier.

 

[Mamacita03]

I agree. Focus on moderate chlorine additions (bleach only) for now until your kit comes-in and you can confirm all readings accurately. From there, post some new TF-100 numbers and we'll keep you on-track. As you may already know ... don't waste your $$ on fancy pool store chemicals. Start reading-up on the SLAM process and chlorine/CYA chart (links below) for when your kit arrives. You did the right thing by ordering that TF-100. I love mine and it's made my job MUCH easier.

I was concerned about the CYA level & wondered if it was time to SLAM, or how much bleach to add if just an addition; shall I input my #'s into the pool calculator to determine how much bleach? Shall I put my FC goal as an 8?

thank you so much for your prompt replies!

 

[Azgirl71]

Yes use the Pool Math calculator to determine amounts to add. Once you have your test kit you will be able to get a good reading on everything including CYA and we can help you address it then.

 

[scott39]

I didn't order the SpeedStir with the original purchase of my TF-100, but after hearing about it from other users I ordered one. The SpeedStir makes testing with the TF-100 a lot easier (faster). Might want to think about it if you are heading into the SLAM process. It isn't necessary, but nice to have.

 

[Mamacita03]

Thanks Scott, I will certainly consider the speedstir!
Lisa, the results I posted are from my TF-100 test kit ;0). I'm ready for your suggestions! Sorry if I was unclear!

 

[Azgirl71]

Ah ok. It said waiting for test kit to arrive in your post, so I did not think it was here. Sorry about that.

Ok, so you don't have a SWG correct? If not then yes do partial drain and refill processs to lower CYA to 30-50 range.

Your FC is to low. Use the pool math calculator to determine how much to add to bring FC to recommended level. Target 8 minimum 5 for your current CYA of 70