B.B.B with the N2

[sevver]

Is it ok to leave my new N2 cartridge in the system and still begin using grocery store chemicals? It seems that the pool has been easier to maintain since I got the N2 cartride three years ago, and I had just got a new one, before I found this site. Well, I am curious, I want to try to save a few dollars and just use the store bought chemicals. But, as seen HERE, it says that you should not do this if you use the N2 system. If the chemicals are the same, then why couldn't I?

[waterbear]

Don't know about how borax will affect a nature2 but chlorine is chlorine and you need beteeen .5 and 1.5 FC with a nature2 system and liquid chlorine is fine for that use (bleach IS liquid chlorine) and baking soda IS sodium bicarbonate is sodium hydrogen carbonate which is what is used to adjust TA so these two are fine to use. If such products as Proteam Supreme and Bioguard Optimizer can be used with a nature2 system (I really don't know) then borax should be fine since it is basically the same thing.

BTW, your link is not correct

[sevver]

Ok, that is about what I figured. I have everything about where it needs to be right now chemically, and plan on going to the store later today to buy some bleach. I need to find my dropper test kit though, I have been using the strips. It is nice to find a good active forum on this subject, thanks alot.

[donfranko]

I had N2 that I bought when the pool was installed last year (before I found this site). The warning about not using BBB with N2 relates to the potential addition of copper by N2 which could cause a problem. The general belief - but not proven - is that N2 does so little it does not negatively impact BBB. But since not proven buyer beware.

I removed my cartridge within 2 months of use and had no negative impact using BBB. My suggestion would be to do the same and just go with BBB. The main risk I see with N2 is the suggestion you can maintain your pool using lower free chlorine levels than recommended here. That would be dangerous.

[sevver]

That is sort of what I am seeing, a lower chlorine content appears to impact sanitation. This stinks, I purchased it like four days ago.

[waterbear]

It is interesting that in Australia they regulate copper/silver ionizations systems much more closely than they do here in the U.S.
http://www.apvma.gov.au/qa/poolspa_FAQ_May2005.shtml

Draw your own conclusions about the safety of ionizers (we all KNOW how well the EPA 'protects' us in the U.S.! )