High TA in fill water

[AndyJ]

I got a sample of fill water from a friend to test for iron. I ran a full set of tests to see where he would be starting. Here are the results:

pH 7.7
CH 280
TA 400
FC <0.2
CC 0.2
iron 0

All of these seem reasonable to me except TA. I'm wondering if the collection technique or transportation could have a big affect on the quality of the sample. He said he got it from the hose which will be filling the pool, but it was the water just sitting in the hose (he didn't let it run first). Also, I got it in a glass Kerr jar with a 2-part, vacuum-seal type lid (I think it's a standard jelly jar). It was probably in there for at least 10 hours, maybe as much as 24 hours.

Should I ask for another sample, perhaps directly from the spigot? And in a plastic bottle? Or is a TA that high possible from a city water supply?

[sturev]

Personally I would get a fresh sample! The FC & CC readings are probably not valid (those are very time sensitive). I have high TA in my water also, but found once I got everything up and running and added some acid, it came down and has stayed at a good level.

[CarlD]

I am much more inclined to doubt the CH and T/A readings than the FC and CC readings. Those may WELL be due to a contaminant in the container. Make sure your container is CLEAN first.

[AndyJ]

Thanks. I will ask for a new sample taken under more controlled conditions.

[AndyJ]

Update: did a retest under more controlled circumstances. TA is really 400. Has anyone ever heard of TA this high? I'm wondering if this is something that must be lowered and what the consequences are if he does not.

He mentioned that after shocking he gets a reddish/brown tint which coats his filter cartridge. The red rinses off and he puts it back in. I was assuming that is due to low levels of iron.

[Watermom]

There is a stickied thread in the alkalinity forum detailing how to lower your alk.