Do I have metal problems?

[sw_stupid]

Well, I had the pool store check for Iron. It showed none so I don't know whether to believe it or not. I went ahead and bought some Metal Magic. Will it hurt to go ahead and put this in anyway? I just don't know if the brown is organic or not. I guess I need to try the Vitamin C scrub.

[Simmons99]

You said it felt like sediment - could it be sand or DE from your filter?

[sw_stupid]

I guess it could be, but how do you know? When I went to the pool store at lunch to have the water tested for iron, she said it is time to change the sand in the filter. (she said every 2-3 years) Oh no!!!

[sw_stupid]

Well, I did the Vitamin C test on my steps. I definitely took the stain away. This means it's metal, right (pool store said it didn't have any)? I added a bottle of Metal Magic and brought my pH down to 7.2. Is it possible that the stains will lift just by adding that? I still have a lot of "stuff" on the bottom of the pool. I think they are two different problems. Can I bring the CL up to shock without affecting the sequesterer? I've read where high CL can make the metals fall out of the water. I guess I need to clear up the water before I address the metals? Any direction would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Brad

[mbar]

As long as you put enough sequestering agent in the water, and bring your ph down to 7 - 7.2, you should not get any more staining out of the water. It is important to put in enough sequesterant - more than what it says on the bottle, according to the amount of water in the pool. I think just by using enough sequesterant and lowering the ph, it should take the stains away, since there isn't any on the vinyl liner. After you see the stains lighten, I would take the chlorine up to shock, very slowly, about 2 ppms at a time. The chlorine should help break the "stuff" down, so it can filter out. You can also put a trichlor puck in the skimmer basket if you have a sand or DE filter. Another good idea is to get a skimmer sock, or cut the leg off pantyhose or tights - put the foot in the basket and leg around the basket. It will help to catch the really fine sediment. Hope this helps, keep us informed.

[waterbear]

There is a reason the pool store did not find metals in your water. It has already stained and precipitated out as sediment. Get as much of the sediment out of the pool before treating the stains in case it is iron oxide otherwise it will redissolve in the water.

[sw_stupid]

That makes sense. I guess I could have them check my fill water, but I know it's metallic b/c the Vit C test. Anyway, I guess I will try and clear up the water (which now looks like a pond) first and then address my stains. Could the pool store lady be right? - change my sand every 2-3 years?. It just seems like the sand would continue to filter if you keep it backwashed.
Thanks again to the forum.