Testing Pool Water

Are you planning a big pool party or just want to spend the afternoon soaking in the pool? Remember, the beginning of warm weather means more pool time! Determining if your pool is ready for swimming is an important first step.
But how do you determine the aforementioned scenario?
The only logical way is through pool water testing. Of course, many people are conversant with the basics of testing pH balance and chlorine. But what most of them don't know is that testing of phosphates and other contaminants like calcium, copper, and iron is of the paramount essence.
If you let these high levels of salt remain in your pool, you are leaving it vulnerable to potential damage. That's why you have to routinely check it and make sure the following chemistry is within the given range.
  • pH: 7.4 – 7.6
  • Chlorine: 1.0 – 3.0 ppm
  • Total Alkalinity: 80 – 140 ppm
  • Calcium Hardness: 200 – 400
  • Cyanuric Acid: 25 – 50 ppm
In this regard, let's explore different methods to test pool water.

1. Test Strips

This is the easiest method used to test pool water. The steps involved include:
  • Dip a test strip into the water
  • Wait for 5 seconds
  • Remove the strip from the water
  • Wait for about 10 seconds for results to show
  • Make adjustments for your pool water accordingly as per the test strips results
  • Circulate the water by using a filter pump
Always remember this is one of the most popular methods of testing pool water. This owes to the fact that the method is quicker and relatively easier than when using chemicals and reagents.

2. Test Kit

The method utilizes liquid reagent to give the actual chemistry of your pool water. Most of the people think this is a complicated process that requires the expertise of a professional. Truth be said, you can easily use the DIY approach to accomplish the undertaking.
All you need is a chart to compare the color resulting from the pool water. More importantly, make sure you follow the procedure indicated on labels of the kit correctly. The main benefit of using the kit to test your pool water is that you get more accurate results than when using test strips. The color changes are more distinct and can easily be interpreted by the user.

3. Electronic Testing

This is a method that combines both the test strips and reagents method for improved accuracy. An electronic pool tester device tests pool water with great accuracy and simplicity. More importantly, the device can test both factors and contaminants.
This method is, however, very expensive. A good example of an electronic testing method is by use of the Total Chlorine Tracer. The simplicity of the method is incredible as the electronic photometer even interprets the color for you.

Before you Leave

Pool water testing is a sure way to increase your pool's longevity and improve your experience. With the correct materials, you can easily determine the adjustments you need to make to your pool to maintain its chemistry. Remember, summer just around the corner, so your pool needs to be in top-notch conditions.
For more information on pool water testing, contact us.

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