Tale of my battles with cloudy water! I'm finally winning...

[ladybug_3777]

I have to agree with you being able to keep the FC at 10 without it dropping it doesn't sound like the same problem we had. Although it didn't work for us, you might want to try some floc. It combines all those small particles in the water into something that the filter can remove. BUT I'm not 100% sure this is OK for your filter because we have a sand filer. I know nothing of cartridge filters so double check that first.

When we used the floc we were told to use 15 oz of flocing agent (broadcast around pool), run the pool on recirculate for 12 hours, then shut it off for 8 hours. By then the tiny particles would combine together then settle to the bottom. At that point you'll want to vacuum to waste. You'll lose some water doing all this so you might want to raise your level up before you start if needed.

OH and another thing I was told. When the pool is cloudy you are better off using a LIQUID shock. The powder is tougher to dissolve and might actually make it a tad hazier at first. We always use liquid for that reason.

Again, double check with your pool store (or another more experienced member here) to be sure the floc is the best advice. It makes sense to me. Good luck... I know how it feels when the pool isn't in tip top shape