Awesome!! Thanks for all the information. That is pretty close to what I have been doing the past couple years. Last year was the first year I tried the DE filter powder, which seem to help a lot.

I'm hoping my filter is fine. I just replaced the sand in it about half way through the season last year. I was having to back wash a lot and that is what the local pool store recommended, which after doing that things went back to normal. So I guess they were right on that one. :-)

Well I got the cover off tonight and here are my first readings using my HTH OTO 5 way test kit.
FC: 0
pH: 7.2
TA: 60
Hardness: 150
CYA: 10
Water Temp: 74

Does any of those readings change the course of action you have listed out?

Also my local Wal-Mart has HTH liquid chlorine 10% in a 2 pk of 1 gallon bottles for $5.99. So from what I have been reading on here that would seem to be a lower cost per active oz. Since it's 10% I guess I would only need around 12 bottles of it? If my math is correct.

Would you recommend using HTH liquid chlorine or just stick with plain bleach?

Also I've been reading some of your BBB method. I think I might give it a try this year. Just need to read up on it some more to make sure I understand the process I should follow.

Thanks again for all your help.