Best way to use the Taylor k 2006 pH test?

[wisco]

Is there a better/best method for using the comparator in the k2006 kit? I ask because since I got the kit I've been testing every morning and I'm wondering about the differences in morning light's effect on the test. For the past few weeks I've thought I've seen the pH rise slowly from to 7.8/7.9 but when I tested today on a rather bright morning compared to the last few weeks, it seemed a solid 7.6. I've moved the test around at eye level, facing the sun, facing away from the sun, moving under an awning, moving out from it. Truth is just not sure what the best way to perform that test is. Any advice that doesn't involve buying one of the Gepe lights I see in the Taylor videos?

 

[woodyp]

Hold it up against a white background.

 

[Richard320]

I do my testing at the patio table where there's good light. I have some cheap white plastic resin chairs sitting across the table and I hold the test block out at arm's length with a white chair as the background. With practice, you will be able to discern pH to within .1, which is plenty good for pool use.

 

[jblizzle]

Or you can hold the test up to the bright blue sky ... you would still be looking for a color match. Use of the acid demand reagent can help you see the different colors.

 

[wisco]

Thanks for the tips. I'll try both of those.

 

[Knjakeman]

I do my testing in the pump house and have a 4ft fluorescent fixture that I changed bulbs to "daylight" color something around 5000k. It helped me a lot. And a speedstir!!


Knj

 

[ewkearns]

I really hate matching colors, too.... and sometimes use some of the acid or base demand reagents to double check my results (one of the benefits of the Taylor kit). This link may help

 

[rdshackleford]

I think consistent lighting conditions outweigh the numerical value. That being said, I find the natural sunlight against a white background while facing north gives me .1 or on a bad day .2 lower than in my kitchen under the brightest flourescent lights I have.

 

[Agent99]

There was a piece of paper (checklist I think) that came with my TF-100 kit a few years ago. I use that as a background and head to my east facing sliding glass door and check there. If all else fails or I can't discern, I hand it to my wife and daughter and get their opinions.

 

[Lou Erickson]

My kit is still on order, but I don't know when I'll be able to regularly test during the day. The suggestion for natural light worries me. I wish I'd have ordered some of the known value test solutions, and may still.

 

[rdshackleford]

Don't worry. Maybe its my eyes or my brain. Some people are better with subtle color shade differences.

One thing that helps me is to block out the color choices above and below. They tend to confuse me. Then when I look at the sample and one single standard, its easier to say whether its above or below that standard shade.