Newly converted...how do I lower combined chlorine level?

[tmess13]

Here are my numbers this morning:

Pool: Above ground vinyl, est. 12,500 gallons
Location: Upstate NY (we typically endure long, below freezing winters with occasional fluke temperature fluctuations)FC: 11.5
FC: 11.5
CC: 1.5
TC: 13
pH: 7.1
Alk: 140
Cal: 140
Cya: 45

It's looking like the perfect day to close my pool today, but I'm concerned with my CC level. Do I need to bring the level to zero before I close it? Also, not sure why the pH went down. You'd think with the additional chlorine that it would have gone up.

Would it harm anything to close the pool as is and rebalance the chemicals in the spring when I open it? Also, what is your opinion on adding Polyquat 60% algecide before I close? I've read that some people use it, while others don't.

Thanks again for your help.

[duraleigh]

Double check your CYA results and repost them

[tmess13]

Whoops, I meant that my Cya is 45, not 145 - sorry - I edited my last post to reflect the correct reading.

[duraleigh]

Yeah, I was pretty sure that was a typo. I would suggest one more dose of chlorine to reach breakpoint (shock) and get virtuallu all the CC's out of there. It will probably have dropped some more so test again, and add enough to bring it up to 15-18ppm total.....that should clear up almost all the bugs.

I personally don't use polyquat but I don't close my pool, either. Most folks that close do seem to use it as part of the closing process. Others more informed than me can help.

By the way, those are nice pool numbers.....good work!

[tmess13]

Thanks a million!