I have an above ground vinal pool and I'm trying to figure out how to do the chemicals?

Question

The pool is 16ft by 3.5 ft and holds about 3,700 gallons. Do I really need to check the ph? My friend says she just adds shock and chlorine and thats it but I don't know if thats ok. I just need some advice it seems pretty complicated.

Answer 1

i have a pool also. i suggest that you, if you have extra cash, go to a pool store and buy the ph/chlorine test kit. that will tell you if you need to add what, because if you add too much of something it could be harmful, plus,  it will make your pool uber clean :)

Answer 2

First- shock is not a noun it is a verb. You shock your pool. What people often refer to as "shock" is simply granular chlorine that is used to raise the chlorine level up quickly. If you want your pool to have no algae and be crystal clear there is much more to it than chlorine levels and pH. You need to get a good liquid test kit. Stay away from strips. I use the Taylor K 2006. It is about $50-$60 but will be the greatest investment you make in your pool. You ABSOLUTELY need to check the pH. If it gets too low it can be dangerous to swim in and destroy your equipment. If it gets too high chlorine will be very ineffective and you will start to get scale build up on the pool and inside your equipment. If you want email me and I can explain all the aspects of pool chemistry in simple terms and let you know what you need to adjust them.