WaterNet Online

Now that summer is around the corner we plan to open the pool. My question is, this is the first time we are prepping the pool after the winter. How do we get the water clear ? Do we just shock, Vacuum, the pool until the water is clear ? Great Escape gave us a kit but its not much help.

Any advice will help..We have a 27' round above ground pool.

Thanks

Eddies

First we need to know a little more information. Is the water just cloudy? Is it green? Did you test the water yet or have it tested? If so, what are the results? What kind of filter do you have? The basic opening procedure that has worked for me for over 20 years is:
Test the total alkalinity and get it to 80-120ppm.
Once the TA is in range, make sure your pH is 6.8 to 7.6
After the pH and TA are correct you can shock the pool. I use 3 gallons of liquid chlorine which will kill any algae if its present.
Vacuum and backwash the filter as necessary.
Good Luck!

This is first time I have ever heard anyone recommend a 6.8 pH. below 7.0 is 'acid' mate.

Yes, Mate, I know 6.8 is slightly acidic and its also at the low end of the range. I did not recommend it...I merely gave it as the extreme on the low end. Obviously, we would all like to have a "perfect" 7.4, but Micro managing to get to that point Isn't always worth it, which is the reason for a "range", just as TA and Cl.