First Test on New Pool

[ForbiddenRooster]

Here are the results:
FC 4.5
CC .5
CH 75
TA 140
CYA 0
PH 8.2

The pool was started last Tuesday but all they did was the initial clean and turn on the SWG. Friday they cleaned some more but only added some salt since it was a little low. Chlorine was 0 last Friday. Yesterday they came around 4pm and added chemicals. I am not sure exactly what since I was at work. All I know for sure is they added stabilizer of about 4lbs since they left the container. Some was still sitting at the bottom of the pool. I brushed it to distribute after taking the water sample. I am not sure that I am reading the CYA correctly. When filled to the top, the black dot is a light grey. I interpret that as there is some, but not enough to be significant. My understanding is that the desired result is not to see the black dot at all.

I am not sure if I should adjust anything now based on this test or wait since it has not been a full day since they were here. Advice appreciated.

I tested the PH using the K-1000. Not sure if there is an alternate method.

They have the pump running 24/7. 3450rpm from 8-10 am then 2250 the remainder of the day. SWG is set to 65%. Seems excessive to me.

 

[Texas Splash]

Pool installers just "dump" stuff in based on what they were told. Not always any good rationale. Now is the time to act quickly to prevent algae form getting in there. No CYA means no protection from the sun. Definitely add stabilizer now via the sock method for a minimum goal of 30, perhaps even for 40 now. See more later about CYA.

Adding CYA:
To increase CYA via granular stabilizer, place the required amount as calculated by the Poolmath calculator into a white sock and place in the poolside skimmer basket. For those concerned about suction flow to the pump, suspending the sock near a return jet or from a floating device will also suffice. Best never to allow undissolved granules to rest directly against the pool surface. Squeeze the sock periodically to help it dissipate. Once dissolved, consider your CYA adjusted to that programmed (target) level. CYA test readings should show a rise in 24-48 hours, however some pools may experience a longer delay to fully register. Best to confirm final CYA in about 5-7 days before adding any more stabilizer/conditioner.

Lower the pH ASAP! Use muriatic acid and the PoolMath to determine how much to bring it down to about 7.4-7.5. Go in stages if you need to as to not go too low. After that, watch it over the next few days. When it tries to go over 7.8, knock it down again.

Keep the FC at/about 5-6 and never below 3 (algae). Do that ASAP. Use some regular bleach (NO additives like splashless, scented, or polymers) to augment the SWG. It's struggling. Warning - Never add muriatic acid and bleach at the exact same time in the exact same spot. They don't play nice together. Separate by a few minuest with the pump on high mixing well.

Last note about CYA. For a SWG pool, you want a minimum of 70 which works best to protect that SWG chlorine. However your water was left unprotected and unchlorinated for several days. If the water is crystal clear and you have NO doubts there is no algae, then you can increase the CYA to 70 now. However, if after all these days the water is looking dull, hazy, or you see any light green plumes as you brush, you'll need to SLAM Process. For that you prefer a lower CYA like 30-40. That's why I say all of that. So it's your call. Let us know if you have any questions.
Pool School - Salt Water Chlorine Generators
Pool School - Water Balance for SWGs

 

[ForbiddenRooster]

Thanks, TS! I added as advised and here are today’s results. Pool is crystal clear with no signs of algae.

FC 3.5
CC 0
TA 110
CH 75
CYA 30
PH 7.2

I added about 80% of the Muratic acid recommended by pool math but still overshot it a bit.

My newbie interpretation of the pool math app is to add bleach to bring the FC up to around 4-6 and aerate (By maybe turning on the bubblers?)

Also, I believe I read to give the CYA a week before testing again and adding more. Not sure if that is the right interpretation. I added via the sock method yesterday evening.

 

[Texas Splash]

Don't worry about the pH. It will climb soon enough. The CYA should be readable in the next day or two. If it's too low, then go ahead and add more as needed via the sock method. Go in stages though if you need to. Keep the FC above 3 at all times right now and you're on your way.

Adding CYA:
To increase CYA via granular stabilizer, place the required amount as calculated by the Poolmath calculator into a white sock and place in the poolside skimmer basket. For those concerned about suction flow to the pump, suspending the sock near a return jet or from a floating device will also suffice. Best never to allow undissolved granules to rest directly against the pool surface. Squeeze the sock periodically to help it dissipate. Once dissolved, consider your CYA adjusted to that programmed (target) level. CYA test readings should show a rise in 24-48 hours, however some pools may experience a longer delay to fully register. Best to confirm final CYA in about 5-7 days before adding any more stabilizer/conditioner.