Tri-Chlor Pool Tablets & Pool Shock

by Raelene
(Victoria)

I am using Tri-chlor tabs in my pool, but the chlorine levels are low constantly. The pool shop testing the water has had me shock the water twice in the last weeks along with adding other chemicals.

We now have algae and were told to add acid and a clarifier. It has helped some but is still very cloudy. I have only had the pool for several weeks.

What should I do?

Good question

It's good that you're using Tri-chlor tabs to raise the cyanuric acid (CYA) in your pool. The reason that you can't keep the chlorine level up between 1.5 - 3.5ppm is your CYA is either too low or too high. It should be between 20 - 40ppm.

Chlorine Tablets..Pool..Swimming Pool Chemistry..Care..Maintenance

Too low means you need to get that level up. Too high means you probably need to do a partial water change, 1/3 - 1/2, then test your CYA again.

When you shock the pool you need to be sure you're getting to the "Super-Chlorination" level which is at least 10ppm above your chlorine level. Obviously if your pool is green then it's safe to assume there's no chlorine available. Try to shoot a little over, maybe 12ppm.

Adjust Your Swimming Pool Chlorine..Swimming Pool Chemistry..Swimming Pool Care.

If you don't reach this level it will be harder to kill the algae and you'll end up using more and more chlorine to combat the issue.

Also watch yourself when your adding "other chemicals". When you have a green pool the best way to clear it up is to use a good dose of chlorine. When everything is in line you'll find you'll be using less and less of the "other chemicals".

Adding acid will drop the pH and alkalinity. Be sure you're using it properly.

Muriatic Acid..Swimming Pool Chemistry..Care..Salt Water..Instructions..pH..

Metals in the water, copper and iron, can sometimes turn a pool green after a shock. Take a sample of your water to your pool store and have them test it for metals.

When you have an algae issue the best way is to first scoop out any debris from the pool, brush the sides, steps, and floor. Be sure your filter is clean and working properly and, with sand filter and DE, backwash once per day. Cartridge filters need to be cleaned manually.

This link will give you the best starting point to clear up your green pool water:
Remove Swimming Pool Algae..Swimming Pool Chemistry..Swimming Pool Care..

Be sure your chemicals are in line for a good shock:

pH 7.0 -7.2

Alkalinity 80 - 100ppm

Hardness 150 - 250ppm (mainly for plaster pools)
Pool Tips..Swimming Pool Maintenance..Above Ground..Inground..Care

I would encourage you to have a good Taylor Reagent K-2005 or 2006 test kit. It takes a little getting used to but it's worth it.
Water Testing Kit..Swimming Pool Chemistry..Swimming Pool Care

Algaecides are only good for preventative measures, not for clearing up a pool. Only chlorine can do that.
Pool Algaecide..Green Pool Water..Swimming Pool Care..Chemistry..

There are a million reasons why your pool can be cloudy. With your issue it is probably algae. Do the above and look at this link:
Cloudy Pool Water..Swimming Pool Care..Algae..Chemistry..Above Ground

It will take time to clear up your pool. Remember to keep filtering, backwashing, and keep your water level correct. Too high or low and and skimmer can't do its job.

Thanks for the question and I hope this helps.

Best of luck

Robert