10" to go

[newtopools]

I have about 10" of water to go and the pool will be ready to turn on the pump. I did hang a chlor tab in a stocking in the middle of the pool conected to a milk jug hanging on a plastic wire across the pool. The hose tore and turned yellowish orange. Wow, that stuff is strong. I redid it with a stronger sock. My newest ? is how often do you have to add borax. I realize that bleach will be a regular routine, but is that the case with borax too. I've almost gone through 2 large boxes. How many boxes do most of you go through in, say a month? Thanks again for all the support and answers. Sharon

[prh129]

A tri-chlor tab will lower pH so that's probably why you had to add the borax. Once you go to bleach, it will not lower the pH (but may raise it) so you should find you won't be needing much borax (if any). Check your alkalinity level also - you want to get that in the right range (80 - 120 ppm) to keep your pH more stable.

Peter

[newtopools]

Should I go ahead and try to raise the alkalinity now? I have been adding bleach and borax daily but only put a small amount of baking soda so far. My alk. has been reading about 50. Hopefuly I can turn on the pump tomorrow. Thanks again, Sharon

[Watermom]

I would just wait until the pool is full and you are circulating before worrying about the alk and baking soda.

[newtopools]

Finally, I have the pump running. I have just added some more borax and bleach. It is night time here and I learned that it's best to do chemicals at night. I will test in the morning. The water still looks good. Lots of bugs. I guess there all thirsty. Thanks for all the help. Sharon