Intex pool uncovered all winter, what to do?

[amombug]

The end of last summer our liner got a rip in the seam. We were able to patch it, but we're afraid if we took down the pool over the winter the hole would get bigger and we would have to get a new one.
We left the water in the pool, with no cover. I read that when filling Intex pools it's best to do it slowly adding chemicals along the way. Are we going to have to drain it and chance the seam ripping further when we refill it? Or is there a way, that won't be a fight all summer long, to clean and open it?

[Watermom]

Do you have a drops based test kit that can take good readings including CYA? What is your volume? You can clean it up. If you don't have a good kit, get a Taylor K-2006 or 2006C (better buy) through the test kit link in my signature below. It is the one we recommend for everybody.

Welcome to the Pool Forum!

[PoolDoc]

. . . membership updated.

[Pappy]

What filter do you have? If you have the little cartridge filter, It will take a LONG time to get the water clear.

[amombug]

I have a drops test kit and yes we have the small filter with cartridge that comes with the pool. :/

[Pappy]

If you haven't already, read this thread

http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showthr...p-routine-care.

Then go to PoolSolutions.com (the sister site) and start reading. Click on Sitemap and read the "Above Ground Pool Issues" first. Your pool will be happier and you'll enjoy it easier.

Order some good cartridges for your filter. What size is your pool?

Our 15ft x 48in Intex went from Louisiana Swamp Stuff to hazy blue in 2 days using Walmart bleach. We upgraded to a sand filter this year and the water was clear in 3 days.
If are going to stay with an Intex brand pool for 2 or 3 years, you might want to look at an Intex sand filter.

[PoolDoc]

It's really hard to clean up an Intex swamp, with the cartridge filter.

I'd recommend preparing to patch the liner (read http://pool9.net/liner-patch/, THEN draining and refilling. If the seam rips, or needs a better repair, you'll be ready. Usually, you can patch liners better with the pool drained, anyhow.

Good luck!