Ideal levels! Who do you believe?

[FADY2002]

Hello. I'm a newbie at this so please keep in mind when responding. I have a decent understanding of what I need to do and chemistry of my pool however, I'm a bit confused with the proper target levels. For instance, the pool math app recommends target alkalinity of 50-90 where Leslie's has it at 80-120 for the same configuration of my pool. Also calcium hardness is recommended at 250-650 on the app vs. 200-400 with Leslie's. There are a few other subtle differences.

Finally, I can't find a reference to phosphate on the app but I'm testing at 333, is that a concern?

Thanks.

 

[PoolStored]

Come to tfp!

80-120 is high because they assume your are using acidic pucks. High TA buffers the acidity. We don't recommend pucks. TA 60-80 reduces pH rise and the need to add muriatic acid frequently.

TA - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

200 is a bit low, below 250, the water will dissolve calcium out of a pool shell.

Calcium Hardness - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

Ignore phosphates. In a properly balanced pool they are of no concern. If you can maintain your pool, they will never become a factor.

 

[Rancho Cost-a-Lotta]

Come to tfp!

Yep...all the cool Californians are doin' it.

I came to TFP in 2018 after riding the pool store roller coaster. I'm glad I stuck around.

If you plan to stick around, take a few minutes to provide some info so we know what we're dealing with:

Create Your Signature - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[FADY2002]

Thanks. Honestly I'm pretty intimidated with the test kits and feel I will have varying results due to operator error. Is testing at Leslie's that frowned upon?

 

[PoolStored]

Is testing at Leslie's that frowned upon?

I can't tell you the number of pools we've helped recover from being #PoolStored by Leslie's.

Don't be intimidated, simple instructions...Link-->Extended Test Kit Directions Archives

 

[Newdude]

Honestly I'm pretty intimidated with the test kits and feel I will have varying results due to operator error.

I got you. My story :

The idiots guide