You’ll need to whip your swimming pool into shape and learn how to keep that lovely clarity if you want to make it safe and clean for swimmers. The possibilities for testing kits to evaluate the contaminants in your water are numerous and range in price and variety. But in order to make the greatest choices possible, you need be fully aware of how to use these tests before you decide. The full range of test kit varieties and general usage guidelines are listed below. Despite the fact that we have provided instructions below, you should always double-check the instructions on any product you choose to buy. Testing strips and drops are the two most used testing techniques (aka regent testing).
Testing strips
- With a glass or plastic container, collect a sample of the pool’s water.
– A soda or pop bottle should only be used after being completely rinsed. The pH measurement will be inaccurate due to the acidity of the soda.
– Water should be drawn from a depth of at least 12 to 18 inches because that is where it will mix the best. - At the testing facility that is supplied, fill the tubes to the levels listed on each tube.
– Your results won’t be accurate if you don’t use the proper amount of water with the drops. - In the tube(s) you are testing in, mix your sample with the chlorine neutralizer that is part of your kit.
– Two drops is the typical amount, but make sure to read your instructions for specifics. - Grab the specific reagent you’re testing with and add it in accordance with the directions. Always use the right reagent in the right tube. Testing issues can result from mixing up the dropper with another one.
- To mix them uniformly, cover the tubes and shake vigorously.
- Use the color chart found on the device or in the instructions to compare the color of the water solution to the chart.
Drops AKA reagent testing
- Take a small sample of water from your pool in a plastic or glass container, this sample should be taken from at least 12-18 inches below the water’s surface.
– Make sure the container has been well cleaned to avoid skewing the results, especially if it is a soda/pop bottle. The acidity of the pop will interfere with the pH levels’ eventual outcome. - The supplied tube(s) at your testing facility should be filled to the levels specified by each tube.
– Using the incorrect amount of water will result in inaccurate results, so it is crucial to measure the water accurately with each drop. - For each sample tube you are testing in, add the chlorine neutralizer that is part of your kit.
– Two drops are typically used per tube, but check your specific instructions for further information. - As directed by the tube or chemical you are testing, make sure to grab the proper reagent. If you combine the incorrect dropper with the incorrect tube, many issues may arise.
- Cover the tubes and shake well to ensure it mixes evenly.
- Check the water solution’s color in the shaken tubes with the color guide on the device or included instructions.
Digital testers
Concerns about human error frequently arise when comparing a test strip to an instruction strip. The balance of your pool can be measured using smartphone apps or digital testers; our website’s testers page lists various digital chemical tests with prices ranging from ten to two hundred dollars. With the help of these computerized tools, you can quickly test your pool for a variety of chemicals and see their precise concentrations. These systems can be more expensive than straightforward strip or drop testing, but they are the most effective if you want to know your results right away or if you don’t trust your eyes to match the colors accurately. To keep your pool clear, don’t forget to test it regularly. Don’t be frightened by the variety of testing kits available; you will be able to locate the ideal fit for you. You’ll quickly become an expert at testing your water if you take your time and properly follow the directions.
