I don't have a way to test CYA right now but I'm working under the assumption that it is 30, What will my ideal or target CYA be? it is in the sun all day ambient temps of 80+ most of the summer.

Based on the strips I have the PH is definitely in the 8.0 to 8.5 range (For lowering PH, I have dry acid, is muriatic better to use? I can get a gallon of 31% mix @ lowes for ~$8.50)

Based on the strips my TA is in the 100-120 range

The copper test strips that came with the unit show no more than 0.2 my family has darker hair but that doesn't mean we won't get some blondes in there. I'll stop adding the dual action tabs, but I don't think I can take the copper out of line without freaking the controller out.