algae problems- desperate

[Renee C]

My water is crystal clear and all my number seem fine, but I keep getting algae back. I sweep and bleach, but the next day the algae has just returned. Does anybody have any suggestions.

FC- 3
ccl-3
Alk- 80
Ph- 7.6
Hard- 250

Thanks
Renee C

[KurtV]

Hi Renee,
What's the level of Cyanuric Acid (CYA, aka stabiliser) in your water? That will determine the level of chlorine you need to maintain to keep your water clear and clean (see the Best Guess Table (http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showthread.php?t=365)sticky thread at the top of the chlorine forum for more information).

Edit: Just noticed that one of your numbers is labelled ccl, is that combined chlorine? What's the source of your test results? Your own test kit or a pool store? If the former, which kit do you have?

[Renee C]

I am very new at all this . I just joined the forum. The ccl is the total chlorine. I am not sure how to find out the cya for my pool. How do I get that reading. I am using a insta - test kit from our local pool store. I have purchased the good test kit yet. but am planning to.

Thanks
Renee

[KurtV]

You'll have to take a water sample to a pool store to have the water tested for CYA. We really need that number to recommend a shock level of chlorine.

You need a good test kit ASAP. Ben's kit from poolsolutions.com is the best. The Taylor K-2006 is also very good and the Leslie's FAS-DPD is also (I think it's a re-branded K-2006). In the interim, you can use a local pool store for testing or get the Wal-Mart 5-way test kit (OTO chlorine testing so of limited value for chlorine above 5 ppm).

Read the sticky threads at the top of the chlorine and testing forums; great basic information in those.

[Watermom]

If you do have a pool store test your water, don't let them talk you into buying a bunch of stuff. That seems to be a common problem - people getting "pool stored" as we refer to it here on the forum. Just get them to test it and then post your numbers and let someone here take a look and offer advice. We'll help you get it cleared up and won't empty your wallet in the process!