To drain or not to drain pool with high CYA?

[PoolDoc]

Yep, bleach every evening.

If you're new to pools, just start the pump when the pool's full . . . but if you've never started the pump from empty pipes before, you might see if someone can show you.

[stevemac213]

Ok, what about cleaning the filter....should that be done now, or after it's filled...or not at all?

Thanks.

[PoolDoc]

What type of filter do you have?

[stevemac213]

It is a Purex Triton Cartridge Filter CC320P. I cleaned it a few months ago...the cartridges were black.

Question...I put all my info in when I signed up but not sure where it went...any idea?

Thanks.

[PoolDoc]

You should clean your cartridges -- how-to here: Cleaning-your-Cartridge-Filter-without-Damaging-It!

No idea about the data.

[stevemac213]

Ok, cleaned the cartridges and let them soak in TSP overnight. They look good and got rid of lots of green...will I need to do this again after I fill it up and run the pump, due to algae that was in the pool?

Have drained more than 3/4 and have noticed some black spots on the bottom and near the stairs...looks like black algae? Thinking about draining it all.

[PoolDoc]

Scrape the spots with your fingernail, then smear the crud on a white 3x5 card (or similar) -- black algae smears dark green.

If it *is* black algae, I'd recommend pressure washing first, and then pouring plain household bleach on all spots. Wait till late evening, and then pour bleach liberally over all spots

Be careful, when pressure washing, to NOT strip the plaster. Old or soft plaster can't take a lot of pressure. Also, try to refill ASAP -- being dry is BAD for plaster, especially old plaster. You're in California -- lots of sun & dry air. You may want to set up a couple of sprinklers or misters on a timer to keep the pool walls damp.