Switch from BioGuard to BBB with new Intex 18' pool?

[Arrow7]

We were gifted a new 18' x 4' round Intex pool -vinyl 6400 gals. and went to the local pool store to find out what chemicals we needed. We fell for the BioGuard super sales program and realized that they are dreadfully inconsistent with testing (read similar posts on these forums).

We want to switch to the BBB method and will be getting a good Taylor test kit.

Currently PH is good but chlorine is a bit low.

Up to this point we have added Smart Shock, Balance Pak 100, Stabilizer 100, Burnout 3, Optimizer +, and Lo 'n slo.
It has been suggested that we add Balance Pak 300 and some other stuff (this is when we decided to seek alternatives to the "experts" at the pool stores - 3 different stores and 3 different recommendations).

So the big question is.... Can we make our water chemistry adjustments using BBB without starting over - or should we drain and start from scratch?

Thanks for the help and the great sites!

[PoolDoc]

So the big question is.... Can we make our water chemistry adjustments using BBB without starting over - or should we drain and start from scratch?

You can almost certainly switch without draining.

As a rule, draining is only necessary if you've used PHMB (Baquacil, Softswim, Revacil, etc) or a copper/silver system. And even then, it's not always necessary so much as just easier, when working with small above ground pools like yours.

But, you'll almost certainly need the Taylor K-2006 sold by Amazon if you don't already have one. And if you want to 'get it all' now, you'll also eventually need refills for the CYA test: 16 oz bottle of R-0013 and Disposable plastic lab funnels. Try to order from Amazon rather than a 3rd party selling on Amazon: Amazon handles shipping and warranties MUCH better.

[Arrow7]

Thank you so much!

And thank you for a great website that tells you so much more than the pool store

[PoolDoc]

yer welcome . . .