Reoccurring algae problem

[100%lemonhead]

I too am a newbie to this forum, thank you. I've been having an issue with green algae, it seems like every other day after I vacuum and brush the walls and floor, the water would be clear for a day then the algae would start to build quickly, when I use the test strip it would show high free chlorine, low ph, alkalinity would be ok, as well as the stabilizer.... I just can't figure it out.....the pool does sit in the sun for about 8-10 hours straight... Thank you for your tips

[Watermom]

Hi and welcome to the Pool Forum!

I think we can probably help you get this figured out but we'll need to know some more information first.

1. What kind of pool is it? What is the volume?
2. What size pump and what kind and size of filter?
3. Exactly what all have you added to the pool, meaning ingredients and not just product names like 'shock.'
4. What does the water look like?
5. Do you have a drops-based test kit? If so, what kind? Post current numbers.

The test kit that we think is by far the best is the Taylor K2006 or 2006C (better buy). Not available locally but you can get it through this link that takes you to Amazon: http://pool9.net/tk/

But, in the meantime, go to Walmart and see if they have the HTH 6-Way drops-based kit (no test strips!) and get that. If they don't, get an OTO/Phenol Red kit (yellow and red drops) instead. Use it to test and then post your numbers. Also while you are at WallyWorld, get several jugs of their generic 8.25% bleach and a couple of boxes of 20 Mule Team Borax (laundry aisle).

Repost with requested info and then someone here can try and help you.

(Until you registration is completed, you won't be able to see the rest of the forum while you are logged in. So, copy that link and then paste it into a browser window after you log out.)

[PoolDoc]

Do this:

1. Get the kits W-mom recommended.

2. Use household bleach to push your chlorine into the DARK yellow range (off scale)

3. If you can get a pool store to test your water, and check your CYA (stabilizer) level, do so. Strip testing is very inaccurate, but if your CYA is extremely high, that will show up, and give us a place to start while we're waiting on the K2006 results.

. . . membership upgraded.