I have been reading many posts here after getting a smack-down by chemgeek (my post incorrectly put into the spa chemistry forum) regarding phosphates and nitrates. Chemgeek, thanks for opening my eyes!
Some background: I have an 18k gallon in-ground, salt water pool built in mid 2007. My builder went belly up about 2 weeks after my pool was completed, so I've been kind of on my own with maintenance. I've been doing the maintenance myself, and on the advice of a friend started using a pool supply store for more in-depth water testing. 2- 1/2 years ago I was having an algae problem, and the pool store told me I have phosphates and particularly nitrates, and the best solution is to drain and refill. I did, and my problems went away.
Recently, I began to have similar algae problems, so had him check, and guess what? I have phosphates and nitrates! I got suspicious, and came here, and received my well-deserved smack down.
MY LESSONS:
1. FC and CYA and their relationship seem to be the key to algae control.
2. Phosphate and nitrate detection seems to be a way to sell pool chemicals.
3. Bromide additions (think that's right) are highly recommended.
4. TA can be lowered by reducing ph to 7.0, then aerating.
5. Pool pal is a great tool for android users.
What am I mis-stating? What am I missing? I'm no chemist, but want to learn as much as I can about pool chemistry.
Thank you Waterbear and Chem Geek!