pH is creeping

[lmisko]

so my pH is creeping up and is currently at 7.8.

FC 8.5
CC .5
TA 250
CYA 75 (still waiting on a sunny day to retest)

I have some of that Bioguard low n slow left by the installers. Is that stuff ok to use or should I just go get some good old muriatic acid? I would like to get my TA down a little bit as doesn't a high level make the pH creep up? Thanks!

 

[Texas Splash]

You can use-up that old stuff if you want to, although I would think the muriatic acid might be easier to dose in specific quantities to hit your target. But unless you have some major aeration issues, it looks like that elevated TA is responsible for allowing pH to rise. You can follow the TFP Pool School - Lower Total Alkalinity page which should help you lower the TA and keep the pH more stable.

 

[lmisko]

Thanks again Texas Splash! I had a feeling the high TA would be an issue. I will follow that guide.

 

[Richard320]

I'd use up the Lo-n-slo Dry acid just to get rid of it without having to wait for a hazmat collection day. Then switch to Muriatic Acid.

You might check that R-009 reagent for static buildup on the tip. It can lead to a falsely high TA reading. Just wipe the tip with a damp paper towel before testing.

 

[chiefwej]

I found that touching the tip of the reagent bottle to a damp paper towel before each drop made a difference of 20 in my reading. So it can definitely throw you off.

 

[lmisko]

Alright, thanks very much for that tip. No pun intended. I will start to work on this tonight after work.