Nothing is better than spending time by your pool on a hot, sunny day and checking your water chemistry, a crucial part of a safe, pleasant swim season. Pool test strips are one of the most common and effective ways to check your water. These allow you to assess your pool’s many chemical components, from alkalinity to pH and sanitizer. You should test your water every two to three weeks during peak swim season. Here are the steps to correctly reading and identifying pool test strip information:
Before Testing Your Pool
Before using the test strips, ensure that your pool’s pump has been running for at least one hour. This will make sure you get the best results.
Testing Your Pool
Before using the test stick, wash your hands and dry them thoroughly. After this, dip a single strip in the water for about five seconds. Once you’ve taken it out, let it sit for about 10 to 20 more seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the color pads change color. Besides testing pH and sanitizer, pool test strips will also measure cyanuric acid (stabilizer), phosphate, and calcium hardness.
Reading Your Pool Test Strip
Your pool supply test strip packaging will have a color chart on the side. This will indicate the optimum chemical levels for your pool. Hold your pool test strip up to the chart and find the colors that match the ones on your test stick. Every color will have a label, giving you all the information necessary. Once you’ve identified your pool’s levels, you can adjust your pool chemicals accordingly.
After you’ve made the correct changes to your water, have your filter pump run for four to six hours. When the time’s up, test your water again. If your levels are right, you won’t have to do anything further except relax and enjoy your pool!. Remember to store your leftover test strips in a cool, dry place and monitor their expiration date. For all your pool equipment needs, including chemical testing kits and balancing chemicals, visit J&M Pool Supply in Peachtree City, GA! We’re your one-stop shop pool supply company that offers everything you need to keep your pool the best it can be! Call today at 678-336-5585, or visit us at 2824 GA-54, Peachtree City, GA 30269!
