Swimming pool chemical advice

[markprior22]

I set up an Intex 18' x 4' metal frame pool over the weekend. I've never had a pool before so I'm very unfamiliar with what chemicals I need to use. I looked online and see many options. Basically I don't want to buy every pool chemical known to man if it isn't necessary (the stuff is expensive enough as is). I would like to know what people actually use in their pools. I saw HTH brand material at Wal Mart. They had what was labeled a starter kit but it didn't seem complete to me. Basically I'd like some thoughts on 1) what you use in your pool and 2) thoughts on good starter kits for a new pool owner.

Appreciate any advice

[Suburban Rhythm]

Originally Posted by markprior22

I set up an Intex 18' x 4' metal frame pool over the weekend. I've never had a pool before so I'm very unfamiliar with what chemicals I need to use. I looked online and see many options. Basically I don't want to buy every pool chemical known to man if it isn't necessary (the stuff is expensive enough as is). I would like to know what people actually use in their pools. I saw HTH brand material at Wal Mart. They had what was labeled a starter kit but it didn't seem complete to me. Basically I'd like some thoughts on 1) what you use in your pool and 2) thoughts on good starter kits for a new pool owner.

Appreciate any advice

No advice on the chemicals, but I will add this.

We got one two years ago, 4' X 12' round. The kids love it.

But, the filter it came with was pretty weak. I think the one that came with ours was 1/4 HP. We ended up finding a 3/4 HP one, same brand, at a local shop that works a ton better. You may want to check that out if you can find something cheap.

As far as the chemicals...yeah, no idea, my wife is home with the kids, she does all of that. Every so often if I have them in after work, she'll yell out the window to throw in some chlorine when we're done for the night. That's about it.

[stevew]

Originally Posted by markprior22

I set up an Intex 18' x 4' metal frame pool over the weekend. I've never had a pool before so I'm very unfamiliar with what chemicals I need to use. I looked online and see many options. Basically I don't want to buy every pool chemical known to man if it isn't necessary (the stuff is expensive enough as is). I would like to know what people actually use in their pools. I saw HTH brand material at Wal Mart. They had what was labeled a starter kit but it didn't seem complete to me. Basically I'd like some thoughts on 1) what you use in your pool and 2) thoughts on good starter kits for a new pool owner.

Appreciate any advice

I've heard good things about the salt water thing they sell.

http://www.walmart.com/ip/19336123?a...0&wl4=&wl5=pla

I think that you don't need to buy all of the chlorines and such if you get something like this.

[cartman]

Originally Posted by stevew

I've heard good things about the salt water thing they sell.

http://www.walmart.com/ip/19336123?a...0&wl4=&wl5=pla

I think that you don't need to buy all of the chlorines and such if you get something like this.

My cousin went this route with their Intex pool, and they love it. A lot less maintenance, and don't have to worry about storing and using all of the chemicals.

[DanGarion]

I usually just pee in the water, seems to work.

[markprior22]

No Baby Ruth bars? :-)