Pool Stains - unsure what kind and best way to proceed

[tmcdonald]

I'm going to stick with just getting the pool balanced and keeping it clear this year. I've got it 95% of the way cleared up and all that is left is some dead algae to get out.

If you can give me some advice on how to get it balanced that would be most appreciated. Any tips on how to keep it that way with a decent routine, and where to get the best prices on chemicals would also be appreciated!

Finally, I bought new sand for my filter as I believe what I have is 7-10 years old and probably lost it's edges. I'm not exactly sure how to change that but figured youtube would have the solution. Let me know if I'm crazy.

Thanks for any help!

[Watermom]

Your sand shouldn't need changed. Sand does not wear out. Many of us use the same sand for a very long time. Occasionally, you may have to top it off but seldom should need to actually change it out.

[tmcdonald]

That's good to know..saves me $30!

[PoolDoc]

+ Check your sand level; add more if needed, but don't change it unless it's really gummy or clumped up.

+ Watch the vids and then retest and report.

+ Good luck!

[tmcdonald]

Thanks for the help..I'm working through this process.

I can say that my hardness is currently through the roof. like, over 1000ppm. I've dumped a bunch of old water out and added a lot of fresh, but i'm still seeing very high levels. Is there a less expensive way to get this hardness down? I was trying to tackle that first, then get everything else dialed in since that is so out of whack.

Let me know if this is a bad approach as well!

[PoolDoc]

1. Post a full set of readings on BOTH your pool, and your fill water. (Don't test CYA on the fill water!) Watch the videos (above) if you need to, but please post numbers, not drop counts. If you are having a hard time understanding the tests, watch the videos, and then ask us questions.

2. ID by make and model your pump and filter.

3. List the problems you see with your pool / water in order of concern to you.

[tmcdonald]

1. I stuck with just testing pool water as I was able to actually get the tests to work properly after dumping 1/3 of my pool and refilling. Numbers are:

FC: 0ppm
CC: .2ppm
PH: 7.0 ppm
Total Alkalinity as calcium carbonate: 100ppm
Calcium Hardness as calcium carbonate: 250ppm
CYA: 80ppm

2) Unfortunately, many markings are worn off. I can tell you the pump is a jacuzzi pump, but I don't have a model number, and the filter tank is model number jsal180, but I can't find a brand. They do appear to match so I am guessing jacuzzi

3) Lets only work on getting the water balanced and clear (it's only slightly foggy right now..can still see bottom fairly clearly)