Lowering TA: How Long Should It Take?

[DanF]

Hi,

I started the 'MA then Aerate' process three days ago. I have added a total of 86 ounces of MA over that time, which Pool Math says should reduce TA by 27. I'm aware that Pool Math's calculations are approximate, but just wondering when I should perform the final test in order to consider the process complete. I tested this morning and TA went from 90 to 70, but think it might have been 80 (there was a very slight color change on the last drop).

My goal in trying to lower TA is two-fold. The main reason is to keep CSI negative to prevent calcium build-up and constant salt cell maintenance. My CH is nearing 600 and with the summer evaporation season coming it will only go higher presumably. Thus pH and TA are the only two levers I have for right now. I also can't control temperature LOL. I plan to drain the pool in the winter to have the calcium build-up at the waterline removed; this buildup occurred before I knew about TFP.

The other reason is to reduce the amount of MA needed to keep pH in the mid 7s (max 7.8 for CSI purposes). If I'm being overly concerned about CSI let me know that also.

Thanks,
Dan

 

[Jimrahbe]

Dan,

I have a 17K pool and it takes me about two days.. But that is two days of adding acid about every 2 or 3 hours.. Testing and adding, testing and adding over and over from morning until I go to bed and then I start again the next morning.. I use my waterfall as an aerator and I never shut if off while I am trying to reduce my TA..

At first TA hardly drops at all, but as time goes on, it starts dropping in bigger increments.. I find that if I want my TA to be 60, I drop the TA until it is 50, as it does not take very long for it to spring back to 60..

Thanks,

Jim R.