keep getting algae on the bottom and cloudy water every weekend

[chem geek]

Keep it above 20 ppm FC for at least 2 days with both nights not dropping in chlorine level. It's still possible you have pollen though it sounds more like algae. The microscope test is definitive and the bucket test is probably pretty definitive (if it grows, its certainly algae -- if not, then it is probably not algae, but not certain).

[mikemedic]

So give me the down and dirty on the bucket test

Just fill up some pool water in a bucket and watch?

I will try anything and interested in learning

Thanks again
Mike

[chem geek]

Yes, but have the bucket be half covered so its not completely exposed to sun. Don't just put in pool water, but some pool water that has some of that algae in it (you may have to turn off your pump and carefully scoop up some of the suspected algae). The chlorine in the bucket will dissipate and if this is algae, it should grow.

[mikemedic]

ok
i will try this
i have spot in the low end right by where it dropd to the deep end. I will grab some of the perpetrator add it and some pool water and keep it out of the sun maybe near the pool building
Thanks
Will let you know my results
Mike

[chem geek]

Just to be clear, you want the bucket in partial sun, not no sun at all. That is, some sun should get into the bucket, but not expose the entire bucket. That's why I said it should be half covered. Algae needs some sunlight, but not too much, so giving it a mixture will let the algae grow in its optimal conditions wherever it grows best. You are basically recreating a miniature pool in the bucket.