First Test Results

Got my test today, it is a nice kit with easy to follow instructions.


My pool is 21k gallon plaster/marcite. It was acid washed and re-filled last week. Here are my results:

FC 1.5
CC 0
TC 1.5
Ph 8.2
Alk 120
Cal 130
Cya 0
Temp 80

I know I've got to get my Cya up (we have SWG), Ph down, and Cal up. Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Chuckles

You pretty much have it.

You can add CYA by putting it in your skimmer--but don't backwash for a week--it takes that long to dissolve in. Figure out from the container how much you need to get to your desired level. I'd aim for 50ppm with an SWG. Then use 1/2 of the amount you think you need....You can ALWAYS add more CYA--but it's tough to get it out!

pH is high--this is common with plaster pools AND with SWGs. Muriatic Acid is the key. Oh, and re-test your Tot Alk when pH is around 7.3--bet it comes down ALOT, so you MAY want to boost it...Add 1 to 2 pounds, no more, at a time of baking soda (Tot Alk Raiser at the pool store is the same stuff at a higher price!), wait a day or two and see where you are--when pH is in the low 7.'s

Calcium: You DO need to get it to 200ppm. Again, buy small amounts and add it slowly over time. No reason not to! Or you can use Cal-Hypo to chlorinate, but do NOT mix it with other chlorine. Only use 68% cal-hypo--avoid the 48% garbage. It will raise your FC--but that's not a problem--and add calcium.

Thanks CarlD for your quick reply!

Got a question for you, where can you buy Muratic Acid?? I was in the pool store this weekend getting some maintenance supplies and I only saw "Dry Acid" as their Ph reducer.

Thanks again!
Chuckles

Home Depot and Lowe's carry it. Might have to check the paint section...
My local WalMart has it in the automotive section. Go figure.....

Janet

Hi all,

I found the Muratic Acid at Lowes (thanks aylad) and added 1 quart last night. This morning Ph was 7.6 - 7.8. I also added 4 gal of 6% bleach last night to get to 10ppm.

I also added 4lbs of CYA (1/2 of recommened amount) to up my CYA as it was 0 yesterday.

This afternoon, the pool has a cloudy haze in it. The water is still pretty blue, just cloudy.

Looking at past posts, should I continue to shock daily, to say 15ppm to clear the cloudy water?? Pump has been running 24/7 for last week, since pool was filled.

Thanks!
Chuckles