Pool pH is at the "ideal" level, but alkalinity is super high

[PoolDoc]

I'll watch for the photos.

[mindleak]

They should be there by now hopefully... they show sent as of about 2 hours ago... but quick question, do you think it'd be safe for me and the gf to jump in since the chlorine and pH is good?

[PoolDoc]

If pH and chlorine are OK, it's reasonably safe to swim.

You don't want kids in cloudy water, however -- it's too easy to lose one on the bottom!

[mindleak]

It's not too cloudy... just barely... can see the bottom very well... plus no kids anyhow

Did the pics of the chemicals ever come through?

[CarlD]

Hi Mind!

You can use the pH Up! in your laundry (if it's Sodium Carbonate) as a nice booster.
Alkalinity Up! is baking soda. You could use it to keep your fridge sweet-smelling.
pH Minus can be replaced by either Muriatic Acid, available at hardware stores. Muriatic is the best way to lower pH but you do have to be very careful using it--wear goggles and gloves, pour it into a 5 gal bucket of water before adding it to the pool.
But pH Minus is what is generically called "Dry Acid" and is sold as that, much cheaper. Also easier to handle than Muriatic Acid.

What needs to be stated explicitly: Generally, if your chlorine level is good and your pH level is good, your pool is safe to swim in.

[mindleak]

Thank you both for all the info Definitely took away a lot of my headaches

We jumped in it yesterday... cold as all get out but it was worth it to say it was ready!

Edit: And looking forward to better tips on how to properly take care of it with less/easier/cheaper chemicals!

[PoolDoc]

Yes, sorry -- just haven't posted them. They are what I thought, and the cautions I offered apply. I'll try to get it done today.