Newbie recovering after algae fun!

[CallMeIshmael]

Thanks Janet! Believe me, I won't be adding any more XtraShock in this lifetime. I hadn't even seen the Metal Problems forum yet- lol.

In the meantime, I found great guidence in this recent thread, and imagine others with similar problems will as well.
Lessons learned there:
No need to over-backwash the filter. I'll wait till psi rises 5-6.
I need CYA #'s badly.
Drop in pH is b/c chlorine from shock process falsely inflates it.
I was being a wuss on the chlorine! (just brushed the sides & saw a bit of algae coming back!) Added 2 more gallons & letting it work in while I get better #'s on my tests.

I'm off to get a pool store water-test & some distilled water. Wow, steep learning curve, but very thankful for the insights!