thanks for the reply. I don't have a multiport valve that allows recirculating, so that is not an option. I am adding lots of bleach and testing everything. I am seeing progress, but not as fast as if I was using my filter. I am using my Aquabot to clean the stuff out from the bottom, and it does circulate that water somewhat.

All the rain in my area (14 inches in some areas in MA) over the past weeks has really been a problem with pH and Alk, but it is good to allow vacuuming to waste and refill without using my well pump. WHen it stops raining, I will clean the filter and start circulating (I hope) with it. I'm hoping it will only take a few attempts at taking the thing apart and cleaning it.

- betty