Dear All ~
First, this is an amazing forum with so much information. Thank you to everyone who takes time to post such detailed answers to the basic, introductory questions like the ones you are about to read! Learning the ins and outs of a pool is more than one might think!

I wasn't sure where to post these questions, as they cover the gamut of topics, but here goes. I will try to be succint. (which is hard for me.)

Basic Info about pool: Chlorine, rectangular IG, fully screened (live in FL), 15,000 gal, Hayward Sand Filter, pump motor is 1 HP, Solar panels for heating, no waterfall/spa. Built 2000. We purchased the house in Nov 09 and are quickly learning (or trying to) the complexities of pool ownership. There may be more info you might need that I don't know, but my husband probably does.

1. Best automatic vacuum/where to purchase? After trying a search, I found there are lots of options that I had no idea about. We do have a port in the pool to plug a vacuum in. I think we would want one with brushes and a vacuum, but don't think we need one that filters the water, too, or has a bag on it. We would like to spend in the $300-$500 range, but really, want the best bang for our buck.

2. Best test kit and place to order/buy? What are the things I really need to test for? (obviously chlorine, Ph, TA) I have a cheap $15.00 one from Pinch-a-Penny, but I think it does not test everything we need. Should I have a test kit that shows Calcium hardness and stabilizer?

3. MINIMUM time to be running pump/filter? We are having a small issue with what we think is mustard algae (greenish yellow on sides/bottom). I am gathering from reading here on the forum that we should be running it from 8-10 hours a day at this time of year.

4. How much bleach to shock? We are using bleach as a chlorinator (after reading about it here). I have read here to do a big shock and run pump a lot to clear out the algea. Will that be all it takes?

5. How often to change sand in sand filter? We are not sure when the last change was done. Also, this may seem like a moronic question: what is DE? (I'm telling you, I'm new!)

6. Making sure I understand abbreviations:
TC=Total Chorline
CC=Combined Chlorine
CYA=Stabilizer (?) This is important, yes?
TA=Total alkilinity

7. Benefits of multi-speed pumps? What are good ones? Our utility company is offering pretty good rebates for installing them and we are considering it.

8. Benefits of switching to salt?

I think that is it....I'm sure I'm forgetting something, but will look forward to your expert answers to generate more questions.

We do test chemicals regularly, but we haven't tested for 2 days and it rained like crazy yesterday (and probably will today as well). Hazards of living in Florida, I guess. If you need that info, I can post with it.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!
Best Regards, Kelly Langston