pH and Alkalinity are low.

[Robryan29]

Just ran my new Intex saltwater chlorinator last night for the first time for 5 hours (as per the instructions). Free Chlorine level is perfect. The pH and Alkalinity are both very low. What should I add (if anything) to get both levels to "normal"? Any help is much appreciated.

I have an Intex 15x48 round metal frame pool.
4,400 gallons.

[Watermom]

What test kit did you use to test with?
What are your current readings?
Did you disconnect the copper electrode to the SWCG?

[Robryan29]

Used Intex test strips
Copper reading was perfect (between .1 and .2)
Free Chlorine was also in ideal range.
I didn't disconnect the copper electrode. I ran the chlorinator for the first time last night (for 5 hours).

[Watermom]

You need a reliable test kit. 'Guess strips' are worthless. The test kit that we think is by far the best is the Taylor K2006 or 2006C (better buy). Not available locally but you can get it through this link that takes you to Amazon: http://pool9.net/tk/

Disconnect that electrode. Contrary to popular belief, it is not copper and not chlorine that stains things and turns light-colored hair green!

[Robryan29]

Don't I need the copper electrode for when I run the chlorinator? And when you say "disconnect", do you mean unplug it from the system?

[Pappy]

You can disconnect the power leads to the copper ionizer. Be sure the SWCG is UNPLUGGED before you do it. After the leads to the copper bars are removed, you can run the SWCG without adding copper to the pool.

Pappy

[Watermom]

You do NOT need the copper electrode. You do NOT want copper in your pool. (Unless you like green hair!

[Robryan29]

I've removed the copper electrode from the wire, but how do I replace the wire and housing?