Taking care of own pool

[new2pool]

We no longer have a pool service and are trying to take care of our own pool. We have the following issues and need some good direction. Sporadic green algae on walls that is able to be brushed off. Test strips read Free chlorine less than 0.5, pH high and alkalinity high. What do we add first. I hear some say shock the pool, or balance alkalinity before pH. We have access to all pool chemicals but just need some direction. Thanks!!!!!

[chem geek]

Add chlorinating liquid or 6% unscented bleach to raise the Free Chlorine (FC) level to kill the algae. However, you should get yourself a good test kit and if your Cyanuric Acid (CYA) level is high, then dilute the water (partial drain/refill) to lower it; otherwise the algae may come back. Basically, in a manually dosed pool, the FC level needs to be at least 7.5% of the CYA level to prevent algae growth without the need for supplemental algicides or phosphate removers. Learn more by reading the Pool School.

[Learned the Hardway]

Run a Phosphate test. Too much leaves, or fertilizer may have gotten into the pool. I had the same problem and same chemical readings. Take a sample to your pool supply and ask for phosphate level.

[rosalind]

Well, new2pool if your taking care of pool yourself then you must vacuum and clean it regularly. So that the chemicals can be prevented daily. You will get lots of pool vacuums. Also checks filter every time.

[Poonamdpi]

Hello,

You need some steps to take care of your pool. First of all, you should regularly clean the pool. To remove the debris and leaves use hand skimmer and to prevent your pool from the bacteria and germs you should add chemicals in the pool.