You can't use a DE filter with live algae; it plugs it almost instantly.

+ If you can bypass the filter and circulate the water, do so. Otherwise turn the pump off.

+ Go to Walmart or wherever, and get 18 gallons of PLAIN 8% household bleach AND a cheap OTO/phenol red testkit.

+ The first evening after you get the bleach, test the pool's pH and then add 6 gallons of bleach. If the pump is not circulating, pour the bleach around the pools. Wear old clothes -- if you don't the bleach will 'magically' jump out and spot them or make holes. Skin is much more durable, but rinse off any splatters when you finish.

+ If the pool's pH is less than 7, get 8 boxes of borax at Walmart. Dissolve 2 in warm water, and pour it around the pool. (Adding them SLOWLY through the skimmer is much easier - but ONLY if the pump is running.)

+ Continue adding 6 gallons each evening, till the pool turns gray or brown, with no green.

+ Meanwhile, open the DE filter and clean it thoroughly. Once the pool is gray or brown, try filtering again.

+ Order a K2006 test kit (they aren't available locally). Report results ASAP when the kit arrives. Amazon links: http://pool9.net/test/ Instructional videos: http://pool9.net/tk-guide/


Keep us posted.