I usually don't add the chlorine until the pool is at least all in the shade...but ususally early evening, Sun isn't down yet, but again it's in the shade. I do think I need to bring my CYA up a little, but it appears to be between 30 and 50 closer to the 30 range. As far as CC I have no idea. I use the test strips but did read that maybe the liquid tests are better? Should I go that route?