Swimming pool contractor "opening" the pool

[CarlD]

Generally, our rule is: If the contractor is installing a concrete or plaster pool, follow his directions or risk voiding the warranty--because the walls have to cure. But unless the vinyl liner's warranty rests on following the installer's directions for maintaining the water, I'd take JimK's advice and ask what they are putting in--and charging you for!
You don't want calcium. Calcium is useless for vinyl liners but people add it anyway. It's solely to prevent the breakdown of plaster or concrete walls.
You don't want ANY algaecide EXCEPT possibly 60% Polyquat...nothing else, especially not ammonia or copper-based algaecide.
You don't want "Nature II" or any other "natural" system that promises to cut back on your chlorine usage (Except for an SWCG--Salt Water Chlorine Generator).
You don't want "Phosphate Remover" because with new water you won't have phosphates.

[columbusdan]

It is just a vinyl liner. I will ask what they plan to do.

[columbusdan]

Ok, I have the pool contractor doing a gasket seal replacement and some minor re-plumbing, but I told them I would handle the initial chemical applications. So, I have 10,000+ gallons (only 12x24 pool) of fresh, city tap water in my pool. Once the mechanicals are ready, where should I start? Liquid chlorine (bleach or 12%)? Should I test for PH before doing anything just to see where the city water is? I ordered a Taylor Complete FAS-DPD Pool Water Test Kit K-2006, which shipped today from Amazon, so I hope to have it early next week.

[Watermom]

Go ahead and test the pH of your fill water. If you already have water in your pool, you can go ahead and get some bleach in there (or 12% liquid -- either way) so it won't turn green while you are waiting for your plumbing to be done. It doesn't take long for a pool with no chlorine to start growing algae! You can just pour it slowly reaching as far from the edge of the pool as you can. Then, use a clean broom or oar or something to try and stir it around as best as you are able. Alternately, if you have one, you can use a submersible pump to move it around.

[columbusdan]

Thanks. I think I do have a back up sump pump laying around somewhere that I could use for the time being.

[columbusdan]

Ready to go....getting liquid chlorine today. I will test water for PH before going to store. I will need stabilizer as well, correct?

[CarlD]

Yup.