Need help balancing ph and alkalinity

Jump to latest Follow Reply
TJones

TJones

0
Jun 28, 2017
4
San Antonio
So, just purchased our first pool and for the past day I've been trying to get my numbers stabilized. We have an 18' round above ground pool. My ph and alkaline are too high and free chlorine is low. How can I fix this on my own without going to pool supply store? All we want to do is swim :)
 
Hello TJ and welcome to TFP! :wave: I can attest that owner testing is priority #1. I recommend obtaining the TF-100 test kit (link below), and if you can get the speedstir, do that as well. You won't regret it and the great value. It will last a good while. The alternative is the Taylor K-2006C, but again the TF-100 is a slightly better value.

As for your current values, don't get too wrapped-up on all the items until the test kit arrives. For now with fresh water, focus on the following:
1 - The water needs stabilizer (CYA). It's hot now, so I'd ensure I had added enough stabilizer for a CYA goal of at least 40, maybe even 50. But start with 40 for now.
2 - You need free chlorine (FC). New water initially would be about 2-3 ppm, then once the stabilizer is in the water, keep it between 4-6 and never below 3.
3 - Keep the pH in the mid-7s.

You can worry about TA after the kit arrives, and CH may/may not apply depending upon your pool type. Speaking of that, make sure to add all of your pool info into the signature. It will help later. So for now, get the proper test kit ordered and you'll be on your way. Make sure to review/bookmark the vital links below i my signature as well. Hope that helps.
 
Ok sounds good!! We did get conditioner with the pool installation but was never told how to use it or when. I have 4 one pound bags of it, is that something I should put in right now and how much? Also, I just have the test strips so I will most definitely be getting the kit, it seems the strips are garbage. So I add more chlorine and maybe the conditioner?
 
If no conditioner/stabilizer has been added yet, ... yes. Definitely add some. Use the calculator to reach a CYA goal of 40.
To increase CYA via granular stabilizer, place the required amount as calculated by the Poolmath calculator into a white sock and place in the poolside skimmer basket. For those concerned about suction flow to the pump, suspending the sock near a return jet or from a floating device will also suffice. Best never to allow undissolved granules to rest directly against the pool surface. Squeeze the sock periodically to help it dissipate. Once dissolved, consider your CYA adjusted to that programmed (target) level. CYA test readings should show a rise in 24-48 hours, however some pools may experience a longer delay to fully register. Best to confirm final CYA in about 5-7 days before adding any more stabilizer/conditioner.
Click to expand...

For chlorine and pH, you could hit the nearest Walmart for a simple 5-way drop tester. It should help for now with pH. The FC will only go to 5 I believe, but that's fine for now. Remember to not use chlorine tabs/pucks on a regular basis and stick to just regular bleach (aka chlorine). I like HEB's Bravo, but you can use Walmart's Great Value as well. Just make sure it's regular/plain, and nothing splashless or scented. Hope that helps.
 
My pleasure. When you get the kit, the instructions are pretty good, but if you have any questions let us know. You can post a full set of test results back here and we'll be glad to assist. Have a good one!
FC
CC
CYA
PH
TA
CH

PS ~ Don't forget to update your sig. :wink:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Thread Status
Hello , This thread has been inactive for over 60 days. New postings here are unlikely to be seen or responded to by other members. For better visibility, consider Starting A New Thread.
Top Bottom
Back
Jump to latest Follow Reply