Testing water

[CHooper]

I just finished having my pool remodeled (new DiamondBrite, tile, coping) and I'm having a pool company maintain it while the rest of our house is being remodeled.
I've always had a hard time reading the results of the drop tests w/ the slight differences in color shades. Has anyone tried a digital tester? What is the easiest, most accurate way to test water, without guessing at color shades or having to drive to a pool store?

 

[linen]

Welcome to tfp, CHooper

The best test kits are discussed here: http://www.troublefreepool.com/pool-school/pool_test_kit_comparison Although they are drop based, only one test (ph) requires seeing color shades. The rest are just counting drops until the color goes from pink to clear, etc. Not difficult at all.

Digital testers sound great, but the ones that do okay cost a lot. In addition, all digital testers need to be calibrated regularly.

 

[scott.MI]

http://www.youtube.com/user/tf100testki ... sults_main

There is a link for videos on the tests that are included with the TF-100. Only the OTO and PH test are color matching. The accurate chlorine test (FAS/DPD) is counting drops. The videos show the CYA test, FAS/DPD chlorine test, the OTO Chlorine and PH Test, the Total Alkalinity test, and the Calcium Hardness Test.

most accurate way to test water, without guessing at color shades or having to drive to a pool store?

For your own safety, no more using accurate and pool store in the same post.

 

[PridgNYC]

+1 tf-100 or Taylor K-2006 for very easy to read tests. SpeedStir makes testing even easier.