fighting mustard algae

[BigDave]

BigDave, I don't think there's a 5 ml marked point on the tester, is there? I'll have to go look.

Yea, I saw that after I posted.

Many liquid medicine dose cups have a 5ml mark, one could measure water with that, transfer it to the test cylinder and mark the test cylinder with tape or marker.

[PoolDoc]

Yes. Later, you may need to turn it off, to see if it leaks LESS with the pump off . . . assuming it is leaking.

[Kateyru]

ok, I'll leave it on. I sure hope we don't have a leak...
thanks

[PoolDoc]

me too.

[Kateyru]

Not able to do bucket test last night so will do tonight.

I have a glass jigger with 5 ml so measured pool water then put in K-2009 tube and tested for FC. Worked GREAT! FC = 10. I guess it might be more challenging if FC is low.

Just sent husband to Leslie's with water sample to see what test results they get. Told him NOT TO BUY anything!!! I've used sooooo much reagent this summer shocking pool at regular level then mustard algae level multiple times. Glad to find a way to test with less reagent!!!!!

Can I use OTO test when FC is back to 5?

will check back about leak.

Thanks!!!!!!

[Kateyru]

Husband just called with Leslie test results (done about 30 minutes after I tested FC):

FC = 5
TA = 70
pH = 7.4
CYA = 40
Calcium = 50
phosphates = 1000

I have never tested phosphates. Please let me know if I need to do anything...I'll check forum too.

Do you think Leslie's results are more accurate than me? I have trusted their test results in the past, just didn't use their recs.

[PoolDoc]

Sorry I overlooked this.

You do not have to do anything about the phosphates.

Is your mustard algae gone, yet?

[Kateyru]

Yes, it is gone!!!! I'm trying to raise CYA now. I've had my granddaughters here for the last few days and kept forgetting to do the bucket test. Remembered last night but I think my dog drank water from the bucket as it was way down. I asked my mother (who lives in Birmingham, AL) if she added water every day and she said yes unless it rains. For the sake of discussion, let's say I don't have a leak, just heat and high humidity so I have to add water frequently. I also add lots of salt in the summer...at least a bag a week, maybe more. I need to record that to be sure. Anyway, if I'm adding water almost daily, couldn't that account for loss of CYA and need for lots of salt???

[PoolDoc]

Adding water doesn't account for chemical loss -- when water evaporates, it leaves the chemicals in it behind. However, water that leaks out, or splashes out, takes the chemicals with it.

[Kateyru]

ah darn, guess that's not it