Hello, I a m planning on opening my pool later this week and already know the water is a dark green with algae after taking a peek under my mesh cover. I will be performing a SLAM but wanted to ask about steps prior to that. With the water level high should I backwash to drain some of the water and clean the filter out or just drain through the waste line? I never had to backwash last year as my pressure never went beyond 8-10 of my normal starting pressure. I also did a deep cleaning of the sand filter a week ago but I feel like it could be cleaned more. After draining the water I should let the water circulate for 1/2 hour and then test the water. Add what I need, retest the water then start SLAMMING when CYA and PH are good?
Pool Opening with Algae
- Thread starter Ironeaglex
- Start date
- Jun 22, 2014
- 52,173
- Pool Size
- 17888
- Surface
- Fiberglass
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- CircuPool RJ-45 Plus
Welcome! 
Yes, let the water mix for about 30 minutes before taking your first sample/test. As for prior-SLAM tasks, if there is anything that can/needs to be removed from the water, go ahead and do so to the best of your ability. The more you do now, the more efficient the SLAM Process should be. You have do have the option to push water to waste or vacuum to waste as needed as well.
Once you're ready for the SLAM Process, just follow along on that page and you should do fine. Good luck!
Yes, let the water mix for about 30 minutes before taking your first sample/test. As for prior-SLAM tasks, if there is anything that can/needs to be removed from the water, go ahead and do so to the best of your ability. The more you do now, the more efficient the SLAM Process should be. You have do have the option to push water to waste or vacuum to waste as needed as well. Once you're ready for the SLAM Process, just follow along on that page and you should do fine. Good luck!
Thanks! I figured draining the water level through the waste line would be better than backwashing with algae present.