The most important part of maintaining your pool is ensuring the water is safe to use. That’s why you need pool chemistry testers.
While a variety of chemistry testers are available, they all have one thing in common – helping you to determine whether your water is balanced or not.
Picking the right type depends on your needs. As long as the test provides accurate results, it’s a great tester.
Importance Of Pool Chemistry Testers
Your water chemistry can change quickly. If the pH changes or the chlorine levels change, the water can be too dangerous to swim in. Testers or testing kits help you better understand your water’s chemistry.
Most kits do come with a guide to better understanding what you’re testing for and what the numbers mean. We also have a quick guide to help you understand what your ideal numbers are.
Test Strips
Test strips are the most common type of pool chemistry testers. Not only are they one of the more inexpensive options, but they’re usually accurate too.
It’s best to buy test strips that test for multiple things at once versus trying to use a strip for all the tests you need. For instance, if you want to test for multiple chemicals, use a tester that’s made for that.
The process is also simple. Dip the strip in your pool, pull it out and compare the results to the color chart included with the strip kit.
Liquid Testers
While the name might make you think you pour something into your pool, liquid testers just involve dripping water from your pool into the kit itself. These pool chemistry testers do cost more, but often provide more accurate results, especially when testing for multiple things.
They’re still easy to use, though. First, collect a sample of your pool water using the provided collector cup. This will be divided into sections to allow you test for different things, mainly pH and chlorine.
Then, add drops of testing solution (only use the recommended drops) to each section. You’ll have drops for each thing you test for. Only use one type of drop per section. Finally, compare the results based on the color the water turns.
Digital Pool Chemistry Testers
If you don’t want to try to compare colors yourself, you can use a digital pool chemistry testers. These are the more expensive option, but also the most accurate outside of professional testing.
They offer fast results and usually involve either filling a small attached cup or dipping the tester into a sample. Even with digital options available, most pool owners still opt for strips or liquid kits.
Professional Testing
If you have a local pool store in your area, you can collect a sample and have the store test it. This offers the most accurate results. Not all pool stores offer this service. However, it’s a good idea to have your water professionally checked occasionally to ensure the numbers match the testing kit you use at home.
Using Pool Chemistry Testers
When using pool chemistry testers, always follow the instructions provided with the kit. Even if you’ve used test strips before, read the instructions if you’re using a different brand. The last thing you want to do is misunderstand the results and add the wrong chemicals to your pool.
You should test your water at least weekly. However, it’s also recommended to test your water after heavy use, rain or storms and after you’ve added chemicals.
The Best Tester
For the average pool owner, pool test strip kits are typically the easiest to use. They’re also widely available and inexpensive.
Most pool owners use either strips or liquid test kits. If you’re not sure which you prefer, try both to see which is easiest for you to use and offers the most accurate results.
Don’t forget that regular pool maintenance is the best way to keep your pool sparkling and clean all year long. Spend more time enjoying your pool and less time maintaining it by letting Koko Head Pool Service handle the maintenance for you.