Pool starting up and completely overwhelmed.

EndlessSummerAZ

Bronze Supporter
May 18, 2023
98
Phoenix
Pool Size
11475
Surface
Plaster
Chlorine
Salt Water Generator
SWG Type
CircuPool RJ-45 Plus
Probably some dumb questions in here but I am stressing over the little stuff. Our pool was just finished this week. 11,475 gallons, pebble sheen, no heater, cartridge filter. Hayward VSP 950. We are in Phoenix. The pb is sending a start up company out today to adjust initial chem levels and start up the pumps as well as give us an orientation. I have my TF Pro kit.

I’m feeling overwhelmed. I’ve read through pool school but still confused. Do I test everything daily initially? Weekly? What test do I use to tell me how much chlorine to add - the comparator or the FAS-DPD? What do I do with pool test leftover water - dump it down the drain but can it all be mixed together or does it create a toxic gas etc.?

Should I change how long my pump runs? Pool start up guy was going to set it up to run 12 hours a day but I read initially it should be 24/7. What speed should I set it at? There’s all different speed settings. How do I do all this?

How do I know what initial pressure is for the filter? Is it as soon as the pumps are turned on?

When is it safe to swim? After a week when all chemicals are retested?

I really don’t want to give in and get a pool guy but it’s all so overwhelming and I have a million questions.
 
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I’m feeling overwhelmed.
Relax. We have you covered. For now, simply get oriented with how to do the TF-Pro tests. Read the instructions and let us know if you have any questions. That's one of your biggest priorities.

As for the start up process, you'll see some TFP articles to help educate you, but follow your builder's instructions for start up. If something seems really odd, let us know.

You'll find that in a new pool you can't add stabilizer (CYA) for 3 days. In addition, the pH will probably climb quickly as new plaster cures. Be sure to have some muriatic acid available to keep the pH from going too high over 7.8.

Post all your test results into the PoolMath APP then let us know if you have any questions. The APP is great, but there may be questions you still need help with. We'll be here to assist.
 
Some links to help you along for now.



 
Some links to help you along for now.



Thank you!
 
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