Frustrated with algae

[phaag]

I have just read the dilemma that JJ has with algae. I have been battling the same issue for a few months. I have a pebble tech pool that is 22x40 - too large for me. I got an algae bloom and thought I had worked around it. I drained half the pool, brushed, vacuumed, did a filter tear down. Things got better, but now, unless I brush every day, I get algae starting. This past week, my pool guy and I repeated brushing, vacuuming, filter cleaned and shocked the pool with additional chlorine. It did not seem to help as my chemicals are always kept with chlorine high, but acid at 7.7. I had been concerned about cyanuric acid, so took the tablets out for a few weeks, but I could not afford the massive daily drops in the chlorine level. Presently, I am shocking the pool with an oxidizer once a week. It seems to help for one day and liquid chlorine level is better, but algae still starts the next day.
I read your recommendation for a different kit for measuring chemicals. How does that differ from the standard? Should I stop using the tablets? I had been advised by my pool guy to install PoolRx, but my research made me hesitant to add copper sulfate to a pebble tech pool. He says he has good success with his other pools that are using it, including pebble tech pools.
I would GREATLY appreciate some guidance, as I basically do my own chemicals and do a weekly check at the local pool supply store, and feel like I am caught in a maze. Thanks!

 

[red-beard]

Welcome phaag,

I have no doubt that you are in a CYA lock situation. Over use of the 3" Trichlor tablets is the usual cause. I had the same problems.

This first thing you need is reliable testing for the chemicals in the pool. Buy a test kits, either Taylor 2006C or TF-100. Test strips and the pool stores are not reliable enough for this.

Once you have the test kit and run through the tests, everyone here can chime in and help get you on the path. Don't add any chemical. And yes, stop using the 3" tablets. Find a good source of liquid chlorine (12% or 10% bleach). You are going to need it. Start by adding about 1 gallon per day until you can get the test kit.

 

[Dtkokay]

What is your CYA level? I think that will reveal the source of the problems you are facing.

 

[JJ_Tex]

Yep, get a good test kit (TF-100 link is in my signature). After that prepare to SLAM to get rid of the algae, then have a good go forward plan of adding chlorine to your pool that does not contain CYA.

And for the record, the JJ with the algae problem is a different JJ