Pool just filled - first test results

[joelq]

Hi all - our IG exposed aggregate (Stonescapes) pool just finished filling Sunday morning, and startup is scheduled for tomorrow. We haven't started brushing yet. Couldn't wait to break out the new test kit (Taylor K-2005). Here are my test results:

FC: 0
TC: 0
Ph: >8 (this is the highest the kit will record)
TA: 50
CH: 140
CYA: 0
Salt: 600

We have an SWG, but it hasn't started yet. No salt has been added to the water yet either. Anything out of whack? What should I expect from Pool School tomorrow? Anything I should watch to make sure the startup guy does tomorrow?

Thanks!

[dawndenise]

By now, you're probably at Pool School and hopefully, your pool is getting its first dose of chemicals.

Don't be surprised if they don't turn on your SWG, as most SWG mfrs instruct you to wait until your pool water is completely balanced to turn the generator on. Your pool finish may also need time to cure prior to activating the salt system. (I have PebbleSheen and am not familiar with Stonescapes requirements for curing the finish.)

While waiting for the SWG, you get to know all about your pool by doing the chemicals yourself! Frankly, I just went through this (my SWG just went online for the first time last night) and it has been an empowering experience!!

Initially, you'll need to buy some muriatic acid to lower your pH into the 7.2-7.8 range. Your pH may be WELL over 8, so lowering it needs to be a priority.

While you can buy plain, unscented bleach to chlorinate your pool, consider buying a small bucket of calcium hypochlorite. It will chlorinate your pool and also give you the benefit of some added calcium that's important in a new, gunite pool. Switch to the bleach when your calcium level reaches 200 or so.

Also buy some stabilizer (cyanuric acid) to raise your CYA reading. It helps keep chlorine in your pool. Finally, get yourself some plain baking soda. That will increase your alkalinity into the 80-120 range and keep your pH more stable.

Post your new test results back here after your Pool School additions and someone can help you go from there. Until just BEFORE you start your SWG, you don't need to test your salt levels.

Lastly, let us know how big (how many gallons) your pool is.