New and lost

[NEPA]

Hello. I retired 4 years ago and my wife has 7 days until she joins me. I’m scheduled for hip replacement in July and mobility has been hampered for the past few years.

Since we’ll be taking care of grandkids (6 yrs & 20 mos.) quite a lot, my wife decided a pool would make our lives easier. I half-heartedly agreed since I’ve never been much of a pool person but can’t run around at the park like I used to.

An in ground pool was well beyond our means so we opted for an 18’ above ground that was installed last August. We only got about 5 weeks of use before closing it up. A neighbor suggested a double shot of shock treatment before closing so that’s what I did.

Took the winter cover off a few days ago and hooked up the pump/filter (sand). Purchased a Taylor K-2006 test kit as was suggested here and just tried it out. Now my head is spinning! Results are:
FC - 7.0
CC - Unable to get a reading. After 30(!) drops of R-0871 the water still didn’t turn clear.
pH - 7.0
TA - 130
CYA - 47
CA - 100
Water temp ~ 58 F

I’m lost as how to proceed Suggestions &/or guidance would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance

 

[Texas Splash]

Welcome to TFP! Actually, your numbers aren't too far off the mark. Good to know you are using a reliable test kit. For now, I'd offer the following:
- Don't worry about the CC. If it's zero then that's a good thing.
- PH is a tad low, but don't go out of your way to try and raise it just yet. The TA being at 130 (slightly high) should allow the pH to rise. We like the pH anywhere between 7.2 - 7.8 ...most of the time.
- Your CYA should be rounded-up to 50. Then we go to the FC/CYA Levels to compare the FC to the CYA, and you are in good shape.

So now the big question ... Ho does the water look? Any green or cloudiness from opening? If not, continue with those good numbers. If the water looks bad or your see algae in the pool, let us know.

 

[NEPA]

Thank you for the reply and info.

I was actually quite surprised that the water was crystal clear. A very small amount of dirt but otherwise clear.

If I understand correctly, I should raise the CYA to 50. How much stabilizer do I need to add? Pool is 18’ by 4’ (7634 gallons).

Also, I was considering getting a robot vacuum. Are they worth the money? If so, any suggestions?

Thanks again.

 

[dereksanders]

If you’re reading of the CYA is “accurate”, you’re already at 50 as @Texas Splash stated.