The Perfect Storm

[KurtV]

Sorry, I meant to mention the pH. Keep it in the lower end of the 7.2-7.8 range (like 7.2-7.4). That will make your chlorine more effective. Test for and adjust the pH before you shock; you won't be able to test pH accurately while you're at shock levels of chlorine.

Don't worry about the Alkalinity for now. You probably won't ever need to worry about it unless you you can't keep your pH down without frequent acid additions or if you get scaling or clouding (which will probably only happen if your calcium hardness is also high). Again, though, don't worry about it at all for now.

[janmo]

Kurt, thank you so much for all your help!

I added some acid to lower the PH, and will start shocking later today.

Janis