Order of operations: High pH and Low TA

[hoboryan]

Hi Guys,

My FC is elevated (I put shock level chlorine in, 16 ppm, CYA @ 30) at the moment given the hot weather over the long weekend, significant pool usage, and recent thunder storms.

My pH is now high (above 8.2) but my TA is low (60).

Which issue should I address first?
Should I increase the TA first (I'd like to get it to 90-100, should I do it in 3 separate doses, how long should I wait in between doses?)
Or should I lower my pH first? which will decrease my TA?

Thanks!

Ryan

 

[mknauss]

First, your pH test invalid with your FC above 10 ppm. Do not act on that data point.

Second, your TA is fine. No reason to do anything.

Third - we do not suggest doing anything based on pool store testing.

 

[hoboryan]

Thanks!

Sorry forgot to update my signature. I recently purchased the TF100 kit and had a friend bring it up from the U.S.

When should I start being worried about elevated pH (or rechecking the pH)? when the FC dips below 10?

In general, my pH has trended higher this year (have had to add muriatic acid several times throughout June); is it bouncing around because of my low TA (does TA not matter as much for vinyl pools?)?

Also I have kept my CYA low this year (didn't add any stabilizer) because of issues I experienced last year. Is 30 too low? or is 40 better for controlling the loss of FC from the sun?

The last two summers have been tough. Maintaining a pool gives me anxiety! as I can do anything while at work during the day.

Thanks!

Ryan

 

[mknauss]

Edit your signature to remove the Pool Store testing reference and add the TF100.

Once your FC hits 10 ppm or lower test pH. Then adjust if necessary. Keep in the 7's.

How did you and do you chlorinate? If you switched from historically using solid chlorine (pucks, powder) and now using liquid chlorine, it will appear that your pH is always rising. But in reality, the solid chlorine you used to use was very acidic and that kept your pH low.

TA matters but only as it relates to pH in your case. So keep the TA in your current range and your pH should stabilize.

CYA of 30 or 40 in your climate is fine.

 

[hoboryan]

I used liquid chlorine from the pool store.
What happens if pH is still elevated after my FC drops below 10? Should I wait for FC to go lower and see if my pH drops to the 7's?
If I add muriatic acid to force the pH lower won't it lower my TA further?
Say my TA drops further after balancing out the pH (to 50 ppm)...should I then address TA?

Ryan

 

[mknauss]

make that decision when you get a valid pH test.