I shock once in a while, but very rarely and think nothing of it. Mostly I just keep the levels pretty constant. Last year was a big bleach year--but it was for EVERYONE in the region, so it was the weather.

I never measure or care about phosphates. The day I have an algae problem I can't cure is the day I'll worry about them. In the meantime, I'll continue to preach that phosphate prevention programs are programs to prevent your wallet from getting thick.

In these tough economic times it's important to NOT waste money on stupid lies and scare tactics designed solely to separate that badly needed scratch from its earner--YOU!