Clear, but no chlorine???

[mary jo]

I did read the post by Pool Doc about cleaning cartridges- saw a couple videos as well. I already have a set of hosed-off filters awaiting a TSP soak.
I am reluctant to clean the recently added cartridges because they were added right before I started shocking, and were new and clean and the pressure has risen very little since then. Plus, honestly, I am still leary of doing this by myself- so I'll want my husband to "help" (maybe he'll get really good at this and it becomes his job-ha), but his availability is limited. BUT i hear you- it's the only thing left to re-check, right?
That's why I mentioned that perhaps pouring bleach directly into the skimmer could maybe help. I read that it helps clean the sand in sand-based systems, but have never read anything about cartridges.

[FormerBromineUser]

I am reluctant to clean the recently added cartridges because they were added right before I started shocking, and were new and clean and the pressure has risen very little since then... BUT i hear you- it's the only thing left to re-check, right?

Your pool has undergone a lot since you started shocking. Get the hubby on the job! Just my recommendation.

[BigDave]

The filters have been exposed to high level chlorine the entire time they've been in service, I don't think adding bleach to the skimmer would make any difference. I know it's frustrating but I think some more patience and sun will get you there.

[mary jo]

So keep up the testing and add bleach as needed to maintain FC 30?
Btw: my husband just got out of the pool- he's been in it several times now during the past few weeks, and for the first time he noticed that the water had a bitter "taste" to it- whereas in the past- even this Friday, it did not. (Not that he regularly drinks pool water). Ever heard of this before?

[CarlD]

I've experienced it, but I don't know what it means. Generally, sour means acidic and bitter mean alkaline, but it's not necessarily caused by the pH. I suspect it's stuff the chlorine metabolized but hasn't yet been filtered out.

[FormerBromineUser]

Agreed. Sounds like CC. Ever taste hotel pool water???!!!

[mary jo]

He said the smell is definitely like hotel but not as strong today- meaning worse yesterday. But the "taste" he's never encountered before. I thought it might be the rain - we've had some last night and early morning and the cover was open. I'll tell him it's CC and see if he gets grossed out.

Btw: I want to take is opportunity to thank BigDave and FBU and Watermom and CarlD and of course PoolDoc ( whom I didn't immediately realize was "the Ben" who championed the site), and everyone else here who patiently read through my not-so-succinct posts and helped me get closer to the finish line. I've learned so much already- thank you!!!