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Yes, you really do need a good test kit. I'm afraid I don't know what's available in Canada. You've probably seen in other threads that we suggest the Taylor K-2006. You can make your phenol kit read levels higher than 3 ppm by using the Shotglass Method. It's not highly accurate but it'll do on a very temporary basis. You do need to know what the CYA level is because it determines your FC target levels for shocking as well as normal maintenance. You may be able to buy a CYA test kit at your pool store and I do know Amazon carries it: Blue Devil is the brand name.

I looked up Eco-Alk. They don't say on the Website what's in it, either, despite their assurances of transparency of information. Since it raised both the alkalinity and the pH it likely is soda ash (washing soda).

There is a test kit link in my signature block; it leads to the test kits on amazon.com. Take a look and see what might be available to you. Let us know if we can be of assistance in your endeavours to beat the Green Monster.