Hi maglib,
just wanted to make a few comments..

1. A FC of .5 is NOT enough to keep the pool clean and sanitary to swim in, regardless of what the pool people say. The mineral pack may be able to help combat algae with a very low chlorine level, but it will not do anything for bacteria and viruses, which need the chlorine to kill them off.

2. Dry acid and muriatic acid accomplish the same goal--they lower pH and TA at the same time, which is a good thing. You'll find that your pH will be more stable if you keep your TA lower--I think the SWCG experts recommend somewhere in the 80 range.

3. Your CYA does need to come up some--it will help keep the chlorine in rhe pool, and most say that the SWCG cell life is longest and the unit works at its most efficient with the CYA at the manufacturer recommended level, which is usually around 80 ppm.

4. Your calcium levels should be in the 200-400 range, so bumping up to 250-300 would be okay.

5. Phosphate removers are usually not needed, and just a way to drain a little extra money from your wallet by scaring you into thinking that you'll have a pool full of algae if you don't buy it....don't buy it!! Proper chlorination will keep the pool algae free.

6. This site makes money through the Google ads, and by people subscribing.

Hope this helps!

Janet