I can't figure out what valves do what

[PerpetuallyClueless]

I am trying to do the chlorine test. I think there is no chlorine in the pool. I added the 10 ml of pool water and put in the powder and mixed, and the water didn't turn pink. It just turned a bit cloudy. I still tried to add in drops of the R-0871 reagent to see if it would turn back to clear again, but after 20 drops I stopped because I didn't want to waste it. So there's no chlorine at all?

EDIT: I just did the chlorine test with the K-1000 kit and that water also did not change color, so it looks like there's no chlorine at all. The pH water turned a yellow color and didn't match anything on the color chart, so I believe it's less than 6.8.

Other tests done:

CYA 55
CH 800 ppm
TA 80
pH < 6.8

 

[kadavis]

Wasn't there a small separate test kit inside your kit, if that is oto test try that and see what happens. Is your chem service coming back today, see what there testing is

 

[PerpetuallyClueless]

Yes, the other test kit also did not change color. The chemical service is coming out tomorrow.

 

[mknauss]

Use PoolMath to get your pH up now.

Use 6.8 in now and 7.5 in target. Input TA of 80. Add borax it states.

Wtih that low of pH does the pool have pucks in it? Are you going to try TFP or let a pool service handle?

 

[PerpetuallyClueless]

No, there aren't any pucks in the pool. Since I got all the filtration stuff figured out, I'm going to try and let the pool service handle it, but if we go another week or two with still no change, I will be switching to the TFP method.

 

[mknauss]

Ok -- just do not mix methods. If you are going to use a pool service that handles chemical additions, it will not work with TFP methods.

 

[PerpetuallyClueless]

Putting aside the fact that chemical companies are the devil and against TFP methods, I need some help. Today the chemical guy told me my TDS was too high (2500). They have been telling me for weeks that I need to completely drain my pool and start over with fresh water (at a cost of $150 for the service, in addition to the cost of water to refill, which I'm guessing is $500+??). Is this an actual problem that can occur or are they just fed up with "wasting" chemicals on my pool instead of fixing the problem the way it should be done? Is this something I can test on my own with the TF-100 kit, or do I need a different test kit?

 

[Texas Splash]

TDS is not something to be concerned with when utilizing TFP care methods. If you don't believe me, take a peek at these threads:
What is TDS?
What is Total Dissolved Solids?
Total dissolved solids and Bleach??

Having said that, it still looks like you are wrapped between TFP and pool store (or chemical service) techniques. As Marty noted above, they are not interchangeable. If you have a TF-100, that's all you need to be 100% in control. Asking others for input or taking action on their recommendations will only drive you batty, not to mention waste time, effort, and money. Stick with TFP and its ABCs of Pool Water Chemistry and you'll be fine. No need to worry about TDSs.

 

[zea3]

We only recommend drain and refill for excess CYA or Calcium. Your Calcium is pretty high but it wouldn't prevent you from clearing the pool. Can they guaranty a low calcium, like under 200 ppm, refill? If not I would pass. What has the pool service done so far? Please run a new set of tests and post the results so we may advise you better.