Pool Stains - unsure what kind and best way to proceed

[PoolDoc]

Hi TMC;

1. It's probably a good idea to run without messing with the stains this year. I can actually show you how to do so, in a manner that will probably gradually reduce the stains. As you say, focus on just basic operations this year.

2. It's absolutely possible to run algae free without algaecide. Virtually the only time experienced PF users use algicide is for special purposes, for example when they'll be gone for a week. There *do* seem to be a few pools that have recurrent mustard algae, for reasons I haven't been able to discover. However, it appears -- in these limited cases -- that running low phosphate levels will resolve that problem. But generally, we don't recommend phosphate removers.

3. The starting place of getting control of your pool is accurate testing, and the K2006 is the best tool for that. We *still* haven't heard of that kit being sold locally; I know that the wholesaler in Chattanooga has never stocked any of them!