How to correctly test & read results for Total Alkalinit

[txpool]

Having problems with low TA, low pH, high chlorine. Tested for TA, via my test kit, indicator turned from blue to yellow with 4 drops indicating to my that result was 40ppm. Is this how result is read? We added 3 containers of TA plus in hope, as indicated by test kit booklet for 25000 gallon pool in hopes of bringing TA to 80ppm. Not really understanding how TA result is read. ??

[muss08]

Yes with most liquid drop tests you add a drop at a time and when you get a sustained color change you multiply the number of drops by 10. So you are reading it correctly. For 25000 gallons you would need to add about 3 pounds to get your TA from 40 to normal (80-120) if your pH is already at 7.2-7.6. If your pH is below 7.2 you will need more because some of the TA will be used up as it tries to normalize the pH. What is your pH? Also, instead of using TA up or increaser simply use regular arm and hammer baking soda to raise the TA. It is much cheaper and the exact same active ingredient.