My husband and I are raising our grandchildren, and we moved from Alberta to Manitoba (Canada) last year. This is our first year with a pool, and it has been a steep learning curve! There is so much conflicting information out there, which makes it very confusing as a newbie. Being that our pool is from the 80's and the equipment and deck were NOT well maintained, we've had to do a lot of emergency repairs just to try and get through this season. We will be replacing the whole system and pouring new concrete, either in the fall or next spring, so next year I'm sure will be a breeze. Learning all about plumbing, electrical, pool decking, liners and equipment, and pool chemistry has been like a full time job for me this spring/summer! After months of searching and reading, I have determined that this website has the best and most up to date information. I understand now the importance of regular shocking/superchlorination, which has helped immensely. I was surprised to learn that crystal clear water can be deceiving and there is so much more to pool care. All that chemistry is mind boggling. 
As the expert advice on this website, I purchased the Taylor CK-2006 testing kit, which just arrived and I'm looking forward to learning how to use it. So tired of ambiguous test strips!!! We have been able to use the pool 4 times so far, and it's getting easier as I go. We hope to have a pool party soon, once I'm a little more confident. 
As the expert advice on this website, I purchased the Taylor CK-2006 testing kit, which just arrived and I'm looking forward to learning how to use it. So tired of ambiguous test strips!!! We have been able to use the pool 4 times so far, and it's getting easier as I go. We hope to have a pool party soon, once I'm a little more confident. 
We're glad you made it here and have a good test kit ready to use. Feel free to ask all the questions you need to about the water, testing, equipment, etc. We have different sub-forums available for each subject. 