We are new pool owners, and just getting started with the TFP method. We like DIY and the "just what is needed" approach.
We did have a pool service open the pool yesterday (winter cover taken off, pool brushed, vacuum), because we wanted someone to show us how the filter, heater, skimmers etc work. From a chemical perspective I understand that wasn't ideal, but we did need the in-person tutorial. They added liquid chlorine shock, and some other chemicals which I didn't manage to catch.
We are ready to take over for rest of season ourselves, and have 3 questions for getting started:
Thanks for the help!
We did have a pool service open the pool yesterday (winter cover taken off, pool brushed, vacuum), because we wanted someone to show us how the filter, heater, skimmers etc work. From a chemical perspective I understand that wasn't ideal, but we did need the in-person tutorial. They added liquid chlorine shock, and some other chemicals which I didn't manage to catch.
We are ready to take over for rest of season ourselves, and have 3 questions for getting started:
- When should we do our first baseline test? The pool service recommended we let their chemicals circulate with filter running fulltime for 48 hrs, and then doing our first test. Does that sound accurate? (I've attached pictures of what the pool looks like 24 hours after first open, water is semi-clear, some debris/algae which we need to vacuum and sweep out again)
- We don't know for 100% certainty the pool type and volume, as we can't get in touch w/ former owners. The pool service yesterday said it was fiberglass, and it's roughly 16x40 (not sure depth yet but about 3-8 feet) so I calculate ~20k gallon volume. How important is it for the chemicals that we have 100% accuracy on both of these? (especially volume)
- Will using a dark mesh pool safety cover when the pool isn't in use harm the pool / cover? The pool service said we need to leave it uncovered at least for the next couple days as the open chemicals will "burn" the cover. We prefer to keep the cover on for safety, heat maintenance (and because I thought chemicals burned off less?) Note: we want an automatic cover, install time is end of season right now and we have very young kids so want protection at all times.
Thanks for the help!