How can I clean up my pool without my grandfather knowing?

Question

I live with my grandparents and we have a pool in our backyard. My grandfather always took care of it, but this year he's sick and not really doing a good job. He is very stubborn and independent and he won't accept my help to clean it! Are there any chemicals I can put into it that would clear up the water? He also hardly ever runs the filter. Is there anything I can do?

Answer 1

This is a tough call.  It sounds like your grandfather might take it personally if you try to help him, since many elderly people see being helped as a sign of their infirmity.  Maybe you could tell him you really WANT  to clean the pool yourself, that you need to learn to do these things for when you have your own pool, and ask him for advice?  If he feels he's still involved in all of this you might not only end up with a clean pool but a happier grandfather.

However, if you try this and he just gets more upset, you're going to have to forget about it.  The pool does still belong to him, after all.

Answer 2

Before you do anything, check this site for the correct info on pool chemicals -

http://appliancequickfix.com/POOLSTUFF.h...

Answer 3

Run the filter, and add some shock to the water.  This should hopefully clear it up if it's cloudy.  Get some of those little test strips from the hardware store or pool supply store, and test the water for levels of chlorine & ph.  You can then use the test strips to determine exactly what chemicals need to be added.