Richard, I don't have anything to aerate the pool except my kids But we haven't been in the pool for over a week now and I just tested - pH is 7.6 and TA is 90. Right where they should be...I usually run the pump only but once a week or so put the barracuda in. If we have a bad storm (I live in South FL) on its way I will shock prior to it coming, but really, other than testing and adding tabs as needed that is about all I do. If I need to adjust the pH I use Borax I buy in the grocery store.