Is this algae?

[smalcolm]

I somewhat messed up my pool in a matter of a week. Our pump failed and we bought a Pentair Superflo VST pump. We have a Chlorsync CS30 SWCG as well. Since getting the new pump, I'm running it 24 hours at day, and my salt system is running 24 hours a day, set to 19% output. The pump was running at 1700 for 24 hours, and I just bumped it up to 2250 for 12 hours and 1700 for 12 hours. For whatever reason, I can't keep my chemicals balanced. I never had a problem before, and I don't know if it's because I am running the pump 24/7 now, or if that's just a coincidence. My FC is at 5. My PH is between 7.8 and 8.2, and my alkalinity varies from 80 down to 60. I can't keep my numbers in check. I test every other day, and I'm either adding acid or baking soda, depending on which reading is off. Now we have these yellow marks in the corners of the pool, that we never had before. I attached pictures. I don't know what to do.

10,600 gal, IG plaster, Pentair Superflo VST pump, Pentair Clean and Clear 150 filter, Chlorsync CS30 SWG, Pentair Ultra Temp heat pump, Betta SE solar skimmer, Poolmaster 5-way test kit, Taylor Sodium Chloride K-1766 test kit

 

[PoolStored]

What happens when you brush them? Looks like algae. Brush them, what happens?

First thing to do is get a recommended test kit. You need it. Link-->Test Kits Compared

If the stains go away when you brush it is algae. Add 3ppm of liquid chlorine a day until the test kit arrives.

When it arrives, follow the SLAM process. You need one of the recommended kits to perform the process. Link-->SLAM Process

If it doesn't go away when you brush, use our stain identification guide:

Stains in Your Pool

The stained pool is beyond embarrassing. Our in-depth Guide to remove stains in your pool will help you to remove the stains and prevent them in the future.

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[smalcolm]

It goes away when I brush it. What did I do wrong to bring this on?

 

[mknauss]

Test your FC at whatever time the sun leaves the pool surface. See what your low FC for the day is.

 

[PoolStored]

Get the test kit, add the 3ppm per day, then SLAM.

Likely you didn't follow this (link at the end) and keep FC in range for your CYA...as you have no reliable test kit to measure your FC and CYA, you can't maintain the FC required. Link-->FC/CYA Levels

 

[smalcolm]

Test your FC at whatever time the sun leaves the pool surface. See what your low FC for the day is.

I will buy a better test kit tomorrow. It looks to be around 4.

 

[proavia]

I will buy a better test kit tomorrow. It looks to be around 4.

Chances are you won't find one of the recommended test kits locally.
Test Kits Compared

Your pool is a major investment - invest in a quality test kit to properly manage your pool water.

The TF-Pro Salt would suit you well and contains more of the test that we as residential pool owners do.

Test Kits

tftestkits.net

 

[smalcolm]

Get the test kit, add the 3ppm per day, then SLAM.

Likely you didn't follow this (link at the end) and keep FC in range for your CYA...as you have no reliable test kit to measure your FC and CYA, you can't maintain the FC required. Link-->FC/CYA Levels

Ok, thank you.

 

[proavia]

Here is a comparison of the kits (thanks go to @Newdude )

Hello!

Hey all. I just posted over in the algae forum, but I thought perhaps I should introduce myself as well. I'm 30, first-time homeowner, first-time pool owner. I admittedly don't know much, but I'm DIY-minded and want to learn. I came here seeking advice after becoming quite overwhelmed this...

www.troublefreepool.com