High CYA & High Metals: Fred Schweer’s Fix-It Formula

Algae that won’t quit, stains that appear out of nowhere, and chlorine that seems to do less the more you add—if that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. We sat down with Fred Squeer of Pool RX to unpack the chemistry hiding beneath clear water: dissolved metals and high cyanuric acid. Together we map a straightforward plan to reduce chlorine use, prevent algae, and avoid oxidation events that create brown iron spots or purple copper dust.

We start with the truth about metals. Well water, aging copper heat exchangers, and copper-based algaecides can push copper and iron above safe thresholds. Before installing Pool RX, a quick metal test can save you from stains and headaches. Fred explains why Pool RX’s chelated minerals are protected while unchelated, existing metals are not—and how increasing chlorine activity can drive those metals past saturation. We dig into proven removal paths like CuLator polymer capture, alum floc, and when sequestering agents make sense, along with why they need reapplication.

Then we tackle cyanuric acid. CYA helps chlorine last but makes it kill slower, which is exactly where Pool RX shines by targeting microalgae so chlorine can focus on clarity and sanitation. We break down adjusted alkalinity—how high CYA can make your alkalinity reading look fine when it’s effectively low—and show how to keep pH, alkalinity, and calcium in the sweet spot. If purple dust appears, we explain copper cyanurate, why it forms, and the fast path to resolution by lowering CYA and restoring balance.

• why testing for copper and iron before install matters
• how chelation protects Pool RX minerals but not existing metals
• sources of metals and safe target ranges
• proven metal removal options including CuLator and alum floc
• high CYA slowing kill rate and how Pool RX helps
• adjusted alkalinity with high CYA and practical ranges
• identifying and preventing purple copper cyanurate
• raising alkalinity with sodium bicarbonate dosing
• cutting tabs, using liquid chlorine, and slowing CYA rise
• extending water life and easing seasonal CYA reduction

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