Best way to open a AG pool after the winter

[rdefino]

I just took my cover and the water looks pretty good, except for some dirt and leaves.

I was going to get some chemicals going this week using the BBB method.

Now should i start by stocking with bleach for a week then adjust the Ph and chlorine from there using borax or Muriatic Acid (if needed), and continue with bleach? Based on testing also.

Thanks

[FormerBromineUser]

Hi! First off, would you please tell us your test results and what test method you used?

[rdefino]

I used the Taylor k2006
Ph 7.2
Alk 30ppm
CYA 35ppm
Chlorine 0

thanks

[FormerBromineUser]

Whoops! I have been out-of-town. Looks like nobody answered you.

Will you please update with your latest test results? Thanks!

[rdefino]

No problem.

My results were the same today, but I did shock it using bleach just a while ago. Chlorine level is at about 12-14ppm as of now.

Was that a no no?

[FormerBromineUser]

You're fine. Glad you got your FC up from zero! One of the things I was going to suggest because of that zero reading, was to do an overnight test. You take it to shock level (15ppm) around dusk. Then test a half hour after that addition and record your FC/CC. Then, the next morning test as early as you can, definitely before direct sun hits the pool, and compare your FC/CC. You are golden if your FC loss <1 and your CC is 0.5 or less as the third criterion for the overnight test is that your water is clear. You already have that! (As an aside, if I do the overnight test, I do it one more night just to make absolutely sure).

Then we can talk about raising that TA. Next time you are going to the store, pick up a box of Arm and Hammer WASHING soda (not baking soda). It's in the laundry aisle.