Hello Everyone,

My pool: 15,500 gal, Colored Plaster, Attached Spa, Flagstone (although it's more like Sandstone - more on that maybe in a later post) Coping, Sand Filter (currently filled with Zeolite), Propane Heater (with an alloy heat exchanger to prevent corrosion - but metal still flakes from the HX - more on that maybe in a later post), SWCG, In-Floor Circulation Popups.

My chemicals (I'm a fan of BBB): Muriatic Acid - several times per week to lower pH (although I'm seriously contemplating the higher pH concept because I'm tired of fighting it so hard). Baking Soda - several times per week to raise the TA back up after the acid lowers it. Borax (as I understand it) for pH stabilization. Jack's Magic Purple following each refill/top off to sequester metals.

My fill water: Well water. But it goes through a sediment filter, carbon filter, softener, and finally a hose-end "PreFresh" brand fill filter before it reaches the pool.

My season: Year round. Covered roof, aluminum/screen enclosure. Plastic windows during the cold season.

My chemistry: I maintain all parameters in the standard bands (but like I said, I'm probably going to give the higher pH thing a try), with the exception of TDS. The TDS got away from me recently (5600 ppm) when I topped off without using the PreFresh fill filter, yes even with the other filtration and softening. Note: Salt was also high (manufacturer's band 2700 - 3400 ppm) at 3800 ppm - confirmed with digital Salt meter. So...

I'm currently in the process of partial drains and refills to lower TDS and Salt. It works great. TDS is 4600 ppm and Salt (was) 3300 ppm. Problem is...

After the last Baking Soda addition, Salt rose back up to 3500 ppm and TDS remained at 4600 ppm. Question...

Is it possible the Baking Soda (and/or the acid for that matter) caused the Salt to rise?

Thanks in advance,
jonnymac