Please Help - Extremely Green Pool!!! No Progress

[sptygl]

HELP - PLEASE!!!
I have approx a 20,000 gallon inground pool, 8-10 ft at the deep end. I have a neighbor's tree that is a HUGE problem most of the year (leaves and debri that cause many problems). The leaves in the pool are residual from months AND MONTHS ago, I thought I retrieved most of the leaves from the deep end, but there still are some!!! Today I scooped out what I was able to... it seems to be almost black leaves, and soot that is almost black dirt (using leaf net). Oh, and I am sure the main drain in the deep end is covered by most of that soot and leaves, so it probably isn't functioning much at the moment.

So I had my water tested by pool store, they told me to put 7 gallons of chlorine in, 1/2 the container of algaecide, and each time I change the filter, I am suppose to put 7 large scoops of DE. I have been changing the filter and cleaning it out entirely almost every 2-3 days (which I think is A LOT!!!). Each time I changed the filter, I would add atleast 5 gallons of more chlorine and another 1/2 container (quart?)of algaecide. Is that too much chlorine, and how can I get this clear??

It was a swampy green, very dark, and now it is several shades lighter... a musty green, but nowhere near clear, and I cannot at all see the bottom, even in the shallow end, I can't even see the steps!!!

At this point, I am being told so many different stories from various people on how to clean my pool. I have spent so much money on chemicals - have already gone through 2 -25lbs of chlorine granules and an entire gallon of algaecide.

Initially, when I came across the swampy green... trying to clean it up, I WAS NOT brushing the pool at all, so I understand that may have been part of the problem. I also have not manually vacuumed, because I was told to wait on that until I can get the pool clearer. It just seems I am breaking down that filter several days a week, and manually cleaning it out and dumping the water (rinsing the filter leaves clear, etc), then on top of that... each time I clean the filter, I have to put 7 more cupfuls of DE in!!

How often do I need to clean the filter, how much and how often do I put chlorine in(while it is this green)?? I am not able to backwash because the lever broke off, so I just open up the filter, lift it out and use the hose to clean, then I use a bucket to get the rest of the water out from the basin!!! I know this is a lot of work, but the lever broke so I don't know what else to do in the meantime. The suction was set between the pool and spa, and now I switched it over to the pool (is that right?)

Today, I switched from the granules to 2 packages of shock (each is for 18.75 gallons) and I again changed filter, skimmer and pump basket, I also brushed and tried to get leaves out. It is very deep so whatever is down the deep end is very heavy, and I have trouble even pushing it with the net.

I tried to send pics of the pool, leaves-and black debri, but it says the file is too big

Sorry for the long message.... PLEASE HELP!! I AM DESPERATE TO FIX THIS, IT HAS BEEN A MESS FOR A WHILE, I DON'T HAVE MOSQUITOS LARVA, BUT IT IS PRETTY GREEN. THANKS SO MUCH!!!!! :>

[Denali]

HELP - PLEASE!!!
I have approx a 20,000 gallon inground pool, 8-10 ft at the deep end. I have a neighbor's tree that is a HUGE problem most of the year (leaves and debri that cause many problems). The leaves in the pool are residual from months AND MONTHS ago, I thought I retrieved most of the leaves from the deep end, but there still are some!!! Today I scooped out what I was able to... it seems to be almost black leaves, and soot that is almost black dirt (using leaf net). Oh, and I am sure the main drain in the deep end is covered by most of that soot and leaves, so it probably isn't functioning much at the moment.

So I had my water tested by pool store, they told me to put 7 gallons of chlorine in, 1/2 the container of algaecide, and each time I change the filter, I am suppose to put 7 large scoops of DE. I have been changing the filter and cleaning it out entirely almost every 2-3 days (which I think is A LOT!!!). Each time I changed the filter, I would add atleast 5 gallons of more chlorine and another 1/2 container (quart?)of algaecide. Is that too much chlorine, and how can I get this clear??

It was a swampy green, very dark, and now it is several shades lighter... a musty green, but nowhere near clear, and I cannot at all see the bottom, even in the shallow end, I can't even see the steps!!!

At this point, I am being told so many different stories from various people on how to clean my pool. I have spent so much money on chemicals - have already gone through 2 -25lbs of chlorine granules and an entire gallon of algaecide.

Initially, when I came across the swampy green... trying to clean it up, I WAS NOT brushing the pool at all, so I understand that may have been part of the problem. I also have not manually vacuumed, because I was told to wait on that until I can get the pool clearer. It just seems I am breaking down that filter several days a week, and manually cleaning it out and dumping the water (rinsing the filter leaves clear, etc), then on top of that... each time I clean the filter, I have to put 7 more cupfuls of DE in!!

How often do I need to clean the filter, how much and how often do I put chlorine in(while it is this green)?? I am not able to backwash because the lever broke off, so I just open up the filter, lift it out and use the hose to clean, then I use a bucket to get the rest of the water out from the basin!!! I know this is a lot of work, but the lever broke so I don't know what else to do in the meantime. The suction was set between the pool and spa, and now I switched it over to the pool (is that right?)

Today, I switched from the granules to 2 packages of shock (each is for 18.75 gallons) and I again changed filter, skimmer and pump basket, I also brushed and tried to get leaves out. It is very deep so whatever is down the deep end is very heavy, and I have trouble even pushing it with the net.

I tried to send pics of the pool, leaves-and black debri, but it says the file is too big

Sorry for the long message.... PLEASE HELP!! I AM DESPERATE TO FIX THIS, IT HAS BEEN A MESS FOR A WHILE, I DON'T HAVE MOSQUITOS LARVA, BUT IT IS PRETTY GREEN. THANKS SO MUCH!!!!! :>

Hi,

Best to take this one area at a time.

First, the leaves. I have a pool surrounded by trees so I know what you're dealing with. When they sit long enough they start to decompose. Yuck! Scooping them out with a net is one way and it build muscles! lol

Another way is using what is called a leaf eater. It connects to your pole and garden hose. Has a bag on top and it uses the water pressure from the hose to vacuum the leaves into the bag. They cost about $30-40. Handy to have around.

First thing chemically is to get a full workup of the chemical balance of your water. If you have a good test kit you can use that or have it done at a pool store (normally done for free). Once we know the levels in your pool we can figure where you need to keep the FC (free chlorine) level at to kill the algae.

Your filter: You said it was a Pentair. Would you get and post the model that you have? Is the backwash valve built into the bottom of the filter? The filter will need frequent cleaning but would be easier if you were able to backwash instead of taking apart and cleaning. You do have to reload the filter with DE every time it is cleaned.

The suction should be set for pool, yes.

I know this can all be overwhelming but just take it step by step and you'll get there. I'll check back to see if you get the filter model and the chemical levels and we can take it from there.

[sptygl]

thank you so much for responding!!! here it is 2am in the morning, and I am still obsessing over this. I just went out to look at the filter, so I can get the model, and thought I could change the timer (I need it to run 24/7, but still do not know how to move it - lol). And, yes, the leaves at the bottom have decomposed and are like a muck!! yuck I did start scooping out earlier today w net, which has been difficult to actually get INTO the net because how much it has decomposed... it is almost like a muddy texture now. Also, the leaf eater I had, blew into the deep end several months ago when we had a windy rain storm (rare for Los Angeles!!)

Ok, so the filter system is a Pentair FDS Plus, working w DE filtration system.
I think the model is P/N 190029

I have pictures of everything, but this site won't let me load them (too big?) I want to make sure the filter is running 24/7 but I couldn't figure out how to change the timer. (sorry, I have several handicaps at the moment!)

I have a pool test kit, but am not sure if I am reading it right. I tested it after I put 2 packages of super shock in, and the ph level was 7.2, but the chlorine still didn't look like it read much - mayber .5?? I will try to get to the pool store tomorrow to get an accurate listing of everything.

Now what???

[sptygl]

thanks Denali!!

IT would be great if I didn't have to clean the filter out manually every time, because taking it apart and cleaning it is a big job. The back wash valve is in front of the filter and there is a lever you twist, either you are suppose to push down and turn, or pull up and turn. I have never known how to do that, and now that I realized a couple weeks ago that I can backwash rather than take the entire thing apart everytime... I tried to do that. The lever kept turning, and I realized the lever was no longer attached and snapped off.

So, I just continued to break apart the whole filter and clean manually, which I hate!! I do reload the DE each time to the filter. There is the valve on top of the filter as well, which I don't know what function it has besides reading the gage and letting out some of the air as it starts. If I leave it on longer as the filter starts up, then water will come out,.... but that isn't part of the backwashing is it??

see, I told you... I am clueless here!!! thanks for your patience!!!

[Denali]

thank you so much for responding!!! here it is 2am in the morning, and I am still obsessing over this. I just went out to look at the filter, so I can get the model, and thought I could change the timer (I need it to run 24/7, but still do not know how to move it - lol). And, yes, the leaves at the bottom have decomposed and are like a muck!! yuck I did start scooping out earlier today w net, which has been difficult to actually get INTO the net because how much it has decomposed... it is almost like a muddy texture now. Also, the leaf eater I had, blew into the deep end several months ago when we had a windy rain storm (rare for Los Angeles!!)

Ok, so the filter system is a Pentair FDS Plus, working w DE filtration system.
I think the model is P/N 190029

I have pictures of everything, but this site won't let me load them (too big?) I want to make sure the filter is running 24/7 but I couldn't figure out how to change the timer. (sorry, I have several handicaps at the moment!)

I have a pool test kit, but am not sure if I am reading it right. I tested it after I put 2 packages of super shock in, and the ph level was 7.2, but the chlorine still didn't look like it read much - mayber .5?? I will try to get to the pool store tomorrow to get an accurate listing of everything.

Now what???

Hello again,

Ok, you still have 3 areas. Leaves out of the pool, full testing of chemical balance and fixing the BW valve.

Is your leaf eater still at the bottom of the deep end somewhere? Worth trying to get it out and setting it up. Makes getting those lovely leaves out.

Get tested at the pool store and then post the numbers here.

The BW valve sounds like a slide valve. Turn and pull straight up, right? You can pick up a replacement handle for it if the shaft of the valve itself didn't break. The valve on top of the filter is not a part of the BW system. It does exactly what you described.

Look at the BW valve before going to the pool store. You should see how the handle connects to the shaft. Bring the old handle in with you and get another one. Get a tube of whatever lube they sell (magic lube or something like that). Inside the BW valve there are 2 orings on the shafts that need lubing from time to time.

I think that covers it for now. Getting the leaves out is a pain but needs doing to really get started on this.

[sptygl]

I wasn't able to upload pics, so I took pics of everything, which you will find here....
http://s631.photobucket.com/albums/uu34/sptygl/

I am running to pool store to get exact details on chlorine etc... so I will post as soon as I return.
I have not been able to figure out how to adjust the automatic timer for 24/7. I thought I should do this for a couple days while trying to clean it out. The timer goes on at 12am at night and turns off by the 11 am I think. I am not exactly sure how to read it. After it turned off this morning, I manually turned it back on for another rotation. It doesn't look any clearer today yet. I have been brushing the sides and trying to net up what I can, which is difficult because of the decomposing of what's left on the bottom... it is black leaves and soot. I managed to get only the cloth net from the leaf eater (the eater is still on the bottom - somewhere!) It is tough to push this stuff and actually get it into the net!!

Should I add more chemicals today?? and when should I again clean out the entire filter (pain to do this!!), because I can't figure out the discharge thing.... Oh - and I will also bring lever that snapped off from discharge valve to pool store - see what their thoughts are, plus I have pictures.

Ok, please let me know your thoughts!!! thanks so much!!

[Denali]

I wasn't able to upload pics, so I took pics of everything, which you will find here....
http://s631.photobucket.com/albums/uu34/sptygl/

I am running to pool store to get exact details on chlorine etc... so I will post as soon as I return.
I have not been able to figure out how to adjust the automatic timer for 24/7. I thought I should do this for a couple days while trying to clean it out. The timer goes on at 12am at night and turns off by the 11 am I think. I am not exactly sure how to read it. After it turned off this morning, I manually turned it back on for another rotation. It doesn't look any clearer today yet. I have been brushing the sides and trying to net up what I can, which is difficult because of the decomposing of what's left on the bottom... it is black leaves and soot. I managed to get only the cloth net from the leaf eater (the eater is still on the bottom - somewhere!) It is tough to push this stuff and actually get it into the net!!

Should I add more chemicals today?? and when should I again clean out the entire filter (pain to do this!!), because I can't figure out the discharge thing.... Oh - and I will also bring lever that snapped off from discharge valve to pool store - see what their thoughts are, plus I have pictures.

Ok, please let me know your thoughts!!! thanks so much!!

Hi,

I didn't see a broken backwash valve. I did see a broken manifold (the white plastic thing that the grids go into). Is that what you've been talking about? Either way, that has to be replaced or you'll never get the pool cleared.

On the time clock there are two trippers. They are held on with a screw. Remove the gold one and the equipment will run 24/7 once you start it.

I'll send this just in case you're still around.

[sptygl]

thanks for the response. yes the broken lever (from the backwash valve) is in the pictures. One picture has it on, then I removed it (as it was not longer actually attached, it was just sitting on top). I am not able to backwash because the lever won't turn either way and like I said, it is no longer even attached.

the broken piece on the filter (manifold) is a crack on top, but the pool store said that wouldn't effect the running of the filter as the leaves and everything else are intact and not ripped.

the pool store said they can't read the chlorine levels, etc .... because they are "throught the roof" and not even registering. The guy said that I put 'too much" chlorine in and now it has bleached itself out. I don't understand this bc my pool is STILL green. When would I again put chemicals in it then?? last week, I had been putting 4-6 gallons every couple days, with algaecide. I am just confused by what this pool store told me

So if I can't turn the backwash valve, do I have to CONSTANTLY keep cleaning out the entire filter and rinsing it out and how often.

I also was asking you if the levers were in the right place, for discharge and suction. (see pics)
thanks so much for your help, I can't afford a pool guy right now, and I am trying to do the best I can to clean this up my self (and I am a woman, so it is tough to manage as the equipment is heavy and my knowledge is minimum in this area). The only thing I KNOW how to do (now) is dissemble the filter and clean it out completely.

THANKS FOR YOUR PATIENCE.... your help is greatly appreciated.

[Denali]

thanks for the response. yes the broken lever (from the backwash valve) is in the pictures. One picture has it on, then I removed it (as it was not longer actually attached, it was just sitting on top). I am not able to backwash because the lever won't turn either way and like I said, it is no longer even attached.

the broken piece on the filter (manifold) is a crack on top, but the pool store said that wouldn't effect the running of the filter as the leaves and everything else are intact and not ripped.

the pool store said they can't read the chlorine levels, etc .... because they are "throught the roof" and not even registering. The guy said that I put 'too much" chlorine in and now it has bleached itself out. I don't understand this bc my pool is STILL green. When would I again put chemicals in it then?? last week, I had been putting 4-6 gallons every couple days, with algaecide. I am just confused by what this pool store told me

So if I can't turn the backwash valve, do I have to CONSTANTLY keep cleaning out the entire filter and rinsing it out and how often.

I also was asking you if the levers were in the right place, for discharge and suction. (see pics)
thanks so much for your help, I can't afford a pool guy right now, and I am trying to do the best I can to clean this up my self (and I am a woman, so it is tough to manage as the equipment is heavy and my knowledge is minimum in this area). The only thing I KNOW how to do (now) is dissemble the filter and clean it out completely.

THANKS FOR YOUR PATIENCE.... your help is greatly appreciated.

If the pool store can't read the chlorine level then they aren't using a good enough test kit that can read high levels of chlorine. The average kit will only read up to 5ppm. Shock levels are much higher than that.

Unless you get the backwash valve fixed you're stuck taking the filter apart. If you can get some closeup pics of the valve and where it broke perhaps I can give some advice on fixing it.

About the discharge and suction valves: I can't tell where the suction valve is set. You want it pulling all from the pool side. Turn it all the way to one side and see if you have suction at the skimmer. If not, turn it all the way in the opposite direction. The discharge valve is fine the way it is. Some water returns to the spa and some to the pool. This way the spa gets filtered water and chemicals.

[Denali]

Just reread your original post. What type of algaecide are you using?

Also, did you bring the manifold into the pool store or just a pic of it? Sure looks like a large hole in it. Perhaps I'm not seeing it clearly.

[sptygl]

I was using swimtrine algaecide, but haven't put anything in now for several days, except the 2 pkg of shock last night. The pool store I went to today was not the one I usually go to, as they were closed. I was surprised ths stor said I had OVER chlorinated, and it was off the charts, so just wasn't registering. They told me to wait a few days then do another read, meanwhile don't put chemicals in and just brush the sides and clean the filter (or backwash, which of course we know I can not do).
--- SO DO I FOLLOW THIS ADVICE??

So, now it seems even more green at the moment, but that may be for all the time I spent today brushing the walls, and stirring up the algae and debri. I have been trying to get up what I can in the net as well.

I did not bring the manifold (and never planned on bringing it) into the store, it is very heavy and WET. That is why I took pictures. Yes, it is chipped on top of the plastic, but would that really effect how efficiently the filter is running? After I returned from the pool store, I again cleaned out the filter, and it was dark green.
---SO HOW OFTEN SHOULD I BEGIN THIS PROCESS AGAIN, OF CLEANING OUT THE FILTER. NUMBER OF TIMES A DAY/ WEEK?

Regarding the valves, the discharge valve is set right in the middle between pool and spa. THe suction valve had been set in the middle (between pool and spa), but then I moved it all the way over to POOL. THe pool store I normally go to said to do that. The suction seems strong, but it also seemed to be working well set in the middle.
I wasn't sure what they meant by "PULL FROM THE SKIMMER, AND NOT MAIN DRAIN". When I asked if that was the suction, and if should be pointed towards POOL, the pool store said yes.
---So, is that correct, and will that help it clear more quickly??

I thought I posted closeup pictures of the backwash valve, both with the lever attached (really, it's just sitting on top) and off. I bought a temporary replacement lever from the pool store, but it doesn't fit on properly. I am not able to push down or up, it seems stuck regardless, and I don't know how to dissemble the backwash unit.
--IF I CAN'T BACKWASH AT THE MOMENT, WILL THIS KEEP ME FROM GETTING THE POOL CLEAR?

I now have the filter running 24/7 (followed your instructions with the timer). Please tell me what I need to do next. I am very anxious to see this clear up. THANK YOU!!!

[Denali]

I was using swimtrine algaecide, but haven't put anything in now for several days, except the 2 pkg of shock last night. The pool store I went to today was not the one I usually go to, as they were closed. I was surprised ths stor said I had OVER chlorinated, and it was off the charts, so just wasn't registering. They told me to wait a few days then do another read, meanwhile don't put chemicals in and just brush the sides and clean the filter (or backwash, which of course we know I can not do).
--- SO DO I FOLLOW THIS ADVICE??
I would continue to brush and clean filter as needed. You could go to your regular pool store and see about testing. In trying to clear algae you really can't over chlorinate. It can throw off the pH testing. Assuming you have a high FC level right now then you don't need to add chlorine. The key to killing algae and clearing the pool is getting a high FC level and keeping it there. With a proper test kit you can measure FC up to 50PPM.
I can feel your frustration. You want a clear pool you can use and you're not sure what advice to follow.

What to do?

Get the leaves and debris out. Hire a neighborhood boy if possible and get the junk out.
Maintain a high FC level until the pool clears. The level you need to maintain is based on your CYA level. If you can't get someone to test that level you have to play it by ear for the FC level.
Run the filter and clean it out as necessary.
Brush the pool. Yes, it will make it look worse but it helps.
So, now it seems even more green at the moment, but that may be for all the time I spent today brushing the walls, and stirring up the algae and debri. I have been trying to get up what I can in the net as well.

I did not bring the manifold (and never planned on bringing it) into the store, it is very heavy and WET. That is why I took pictures. Yes, it is chipped on top of the plastic, but would that really effect how efficiently the filter is running? After I returned from the pool store, I again cleaned out the filter, and it was dark green.
---SO HOW OFTEN SHOULD I BEGIN THIS PROCESS AGAIN, OF CLEANING OUT THE FILTER. NUMBER OF TIMES A DAY/ WEEK?
The manifold. When water comes in the filter it goes through the grids (and DE) to the insides of the grids and up to the manifold and then out of the filter through the stand pipe in the filter. If the manifold has a hole or crack, dirty water will skip the grids and go right back to the pool. If you aren't seeing DE come back into the pool when you are reloading the filter then the manifold is ok.

I know talking apart and cleaning the filter is tough. It should be done whenever the filter plugs up. No way to tell how often that will be. Getting the BW valve will help as you won't have to take the filter apart each time.
Regarding the valves, the discharge valve is set right in the middle between pool and spa. THe suction valve had been set in the middle (between pool and spa), but then I moved it all the way over to POOL. THe pool store I normally go to said to do that. The suction seems strong, but it also seemed to be working well set in the middle.
I wasn't sure what they meant by "PULL FROM THE SKIMMER, AND NOT MAIN DRAIN". When I asked if that was the suction, and if should be pointed towards POOL, the pool store said yes.
---So, is that correct, and will that help it clear more quickly??
Valves are just right if the suction is set all the way to pool. To vacuum the pool this is the setting you want.
I thought I posted closeup pictures of the backwash valve, both with the lever attached (really, it's just sitting on top) and off. I bought a temporary replacement lever from the pool store, but it doesn't fit on properly. I am not able to push down or up, it seems stuck regardless, and I don't know how to dissemble the backwash unit.
--IF I CAN'T BACKWASH AT THE MOMENT, WILL THIS KEEP ME FROM GETTING THE POOL CLEAR?
As mentioned, the filter has to be clean to clear the pool. You can go by the pressure increase measured at the filter or just by watching the suction in the skimmer. When the suction slows down, clean the filter.
I now have the filter running 24/7 (followed your instructions with the timer). Please tell me what I need to do next. I am very anxious to see this clear up. THANK YOU!!!

[sptygl]

I brought a picture of the manifold into the store, they said i need to get a replacement, because as is it will not function up to par, and the DE will go back into the pool. I just want to make sure I am not buying additional items that are still functioning. Do I really need to replace that part?

The reading they gave me on my POOL are:
Chlorine : 0
PH : 6.9
ALK : 40 PPM
CYA : 40 PPM
Funny, because I have no idea what those numbers mean!! He also mentioned something about phosphates (?) Phost residue in pool. (he said this is shows as a result of algae?? - but I am not sure)

Since then, cleaned out filter, added 3lbs of chlor granules and algaecide (@ 9 hours ago). I brushed the sides two more times, and tried again to net some leaves-junk out..but that is tough because it's hard to get into the net. I was able to get some, but it does feel for the most part the brush is hitting floor. There are only a few areas where it seems I am pushing something heavy (leaves-debris etc...)

Sorry if i am repeating some of this, I thought I posted this morning after putting in the additional chemicals, cleaning filter and running it for 24 hours straight... I just can't find my post!!!

Pool store also told me I should probably just drain the pool!! Is that their answer for everything?? ughh.... so didn't want to do that, but I also don't want to spend a fortune on chemicals. I realize now, I wasted so much 2 weeks ago... putting in 5-6 gallons every few days, very inconsistently and not reading a chart to see where things stood. Pool store also suggested using the leaf eater, which I mentioned here... I lost on the bottom of the pool!! ughhhh again!! So, should I just go out a purchase ANOTHER one to try to get what I can out from the deep end and will it make a difference?? I also bought 2 cases of straight bleach (13 bottles all together). I am thinking about throwing 5 in tonight to see how much difference it could make by tomorrow.
Did I mention, how scuzzy the green slime at the bottom is??? wow, yes, it is gross and down there w the decomposed leaves.

So, this is where I am now.... Do I drain the pool?? Will this replacement manifold piece really make a difference with the operation of the filter? I don't really know HOW MUCH crud is down there, but it has develped into slime and there are still leaves. WIll a leaf eater really get all that?? I tried to manually vacuum, which I might have mentioned in previous posts, but couldn't manage to properly get the hose to get suction.
PLEASE HELP

this site is amazing, you all are so nice to help those of us who are totally clueless!!! You have so much patience, and I am so grateful for the great advice, as I know I am a handful here!!!

I hope to hear back from you tonight......
Many thanks
Heather

[Denali]

Hi Heather,

About the manifold: It does look to me like it should be replaced. Bring in the old one (without the grids) and the store will be able to tell. If it is letting dirty water pass through back to the pool it will make a big difference in cleaning.

About the numbers and chemicals you added: pH is low, alk (TA) is low, CYA is ok for now. The dichlor you added will push chlorine level up but push TA and pH down a bit. It will also add CYA which will be ok. You may need to push the pH and TA up. Get a retest if you can for those.

About the algaecide: I wouldn't add any more. Swimtrine is mostly a copper based algaecide and I never recommend using those.

About the leaf eater: I wouldn't buy a new one. I would get the one hiding at the bottom of the pool and see if it will help with the leaves. The leaves can be so thick and heavy the leaf eater won't handle it. I go through this every time the santa ana winds blow. I use a leaf eater and a net and just keep at it. With the leaves in there, clearing the pool is very tough.

About draining: It is an option. With the pool empty you can get the leaves easier. To drain you'll have to hire someone with a pump or rent one. There is the cost of the water replacement and cost of the refill chemicals. I avoid draining mine unless the hardness level has gotten so high that I have to do it. There are bad things that can happen when a pool is empty.

If you feel the leaves and slim are just to much for you to handle then perhaps hire a pool service to come in and clear it out.

[sptygl]

STARTING OVER HERE....

let me first say thanks so much for being an incredibly knowledgable group and amazing site!!

I was so frustrated before (didn't you notice?)
and didn't realize what a huge problem a broken manifold would cause in my attempts to clean up the pool!! I kept taking the filter apart manually for cleaning (no backwash because lever snapped off and wasn't sure how to get that working)... the green thick color did lighten somewhat, but sadly not enough, and I was pouring all the DE back in the pool, AND wasting a TON of bleach -- slowly getting nowhere!!

SO now, I would like to start the process AGAIN... but it's been weeks!!! THe pool now is VERY GREEN, but the manifold has been replaced on the filter, so hopefully that will make a difference. I picked up 20 gallons of standard bleach from the store, and began with taking the filter apart and hosing it down. I added 9 gallons of bleach and brushed down what I could. THe filter is set to run 24/7

Last week... (no chemicals added) AND I only attempted to see if there was still any leaves in the bottom... not much, but I did pull up large nets of ... slime/mud!!! YUCK... This smelled terrrible, and was very heavy in the net... I was surprised it didn't run through the net back into the water, but some of it was so thick I guess it just held up in the net. There is still some slime down there, but I can't see through the water, and WONDER IF IT IS POSSIBLE TO DILUTE OR BREAK THIS DOWN SOMEHOW SO THAT MY POOL CAN RECOVER AND BE BLUE AGAIN????

I don't know how to backwash (and like I said the lever snapped off).. THe backwash valve area hasn't been used (atleast by myself in the last 2 yrs... and I don't know when it was last). What I do is manually dissemble the filter to clean, and I use a bucket to get what dirty water I can out (not sure how to DRAIN what is at the bottom of the filter)

Am I just a lost cause?? and worse, is it possible to clear my POOL?? Please.. Please be patient with me,... and again many thanks for all your valuable advice. I know I am very inexperienced here, but appreciate any help you can offer. SHOULD I CONSIDER DRAINING THE ENTIRE POOL, or will I be able to clean this problem without it costing me TONS of money?
Also, I do not know how to vacuum, although I do have the hose and vaccuum head (manual). I also have a POOL Blaster charging at the moment, not sure how much that can actually help.

AWAITING YOUR REPLY!!! I think I am ready NOW... and hope it's something I can somehow manage with a lot of your help!!

many thanks,
heather