Hello All,
I have decided to take the plunge and take care of my pool. I have an approximatley 10000 gallon pool with another 1200 gallons in a elevated spa. We have a Jandy 1400 SWG with a DelOzone system (My Wifes Idea) and other than the Jandy not working at first, we have had little or no problems. After my pool guy didn't show, or return calls, I called and told him not to bother and that he was fired. After doing a little research and getting the pool into shape by adding bleach and CYA, I realized that I could do this myself.

Here is my question, having measured my chemicals this morning, I am wondering if my PH and ALK are too high. I used a Taylor Test kit with reagents for the following results. I took my samples from approximately 12 inches deep in the deep end of the pool.

FC 4 - 5 (My SWG was set to 55%, I have since lowered to 45%)
TC 4 - 5
CC - 0

PH 7.8+
ALK 120ppm

CYA (Testing using a strip identifies between O.K. and low)

The Taylor Kit suggests on their chart that if I wish to lower my ph (1 -2 drop(s) of the reagent to attain the ideal color), I can add around 12 oz of dry acid. To lower my ALK approximately 20ppm, it suggest approximately 2lbs of dry acid.
Do I even need to worry about lowering these numbers?

I have heard that with water movement, I have 8' of sheer descents and a spa spillway, that the ALK will lower on its own.

Finally, from what I understand, having a low CYA is better than a high CYA, so is this something to worry about? Is there a more accurate test for measuring the CYA?

Anyway, thank your for your input for a complete novice. I truly do appreciate any thoughts.

Thanks,

Mike