Maintaining pool during extended power outage

[MNiels]

Our electrical sub-panel for the pool burned out (literally) and is not repairable or replaceable. It's 50 years old, was installed in a way that is no longer up to code, and we actually have to replace the meter main service as well. It's already been a week and will likely be another 2 weeks, possibly more. So, we have no motor, no filter, no water circulation. We're trying to maintain water quality with daily brushing and higher-than-usual daily chlorine dosing, but the water is losing clarity and getting that hint of green.

Question 1: How high should I try to maintain the FC in the meantime? My daily target is 8.5 now, and I see daily loss of 1.5-3 ppm, and CC has been 0. The CYA is 30 or less; I try to keep it at 40-50, but we've had excessive water turnover with over 18 inches of rain in the past 6 weeks, daily temps in the high 90’s, water temp 86, and full sun on the pool. I was preparing to clean the filter and then add CYA, but alas…

Question 2: Can I clean the filter cartridge now? It was due for a routine cleaning (last cleaned in May), and now it’s just stewing in the heat – it will be disgusting by the time we get power back. My concern is that, without the pump running, there will be air pockets when I reassemble the filter, and parts and seals that should be wet may dry out if the system isn’t pulling water back in where it’s needed, and I can’t see how to completely refill the filter housing (Pentair 150 cartridge filter, top half comes off to remove filter). Do I just wait until power is restored to clean the filter, and plan on a massive SLAM?

Thanks for any advice you can provide. Is there anything else you can suggest to minimize the damage while we wait for power restoration?

 

[1poolman1]

Any time a filter system is opened, whether the filter tank or the pump lid, air is allowed into the system. It will purge when the pump begins moving water. Clean the cartridge now and replace it (them?) in the tank. Remember, there is no water in a filter when it is installed.

 

[ajw22]

Checking your FC daily and maintaining a FC around 8 should keep your water fine. Stir the water using your pool brush.

I would clean the filter now and let everything dry out in the sun then reassemble. It should be good to go when you get your electrical repaired. This is what is done when pools are closed for the winter and filters sit dry for 6 months.

 

[flynwill]

Assuming the house has power I would probably see if a temporary hookup can be run.

 

[MNiels]

Thank you, all. Will clean filter today and see if it can dry in our tropical humidity (may bring it into the AC for final drying), and soldier on with chlorine and brushing! We don't have an option to set up temporary power but are now scheduled for Aug 3 for the electric upgrades/replacements. We'll see then if the pool motor was also damaged.