Question on Taylor K-2600 FAS-DPD testing, Different readings for FC for 25ML test vs 10ML test

May 22, 2017
22
Morristown nj
Pool Size
26000
Surface
Vinyl
Chlorine
Liquid Chlorine
While I'm Slamming my pool, I just ran a test for FC using the K-2600 FAS-DPD kit.
Just out of curiosity, I did the 25 ML test, and the 10ML test on same water sample just for comparison, surprised to find
the results were different. Tried several times, same difference in results.
Any body else ever run into this, or am I confusing some thing?
Thanks
 
Hey Neighbor.

What results did you get?
Can you describe each test?
A small difference is expected due to differences in precision and accuracy.
 
Hey Neighbor.

What results did you get?
Can you describe each test?
A small difference is expected due to differences in precision and accuracy.
Hey,
I tested this morning, and like I said tried the same water sample using both the 25 ML method, and the 10 ML. This is with
a Taylor K-2600 with brandy new reagents.
The initial reading on 25 ML sample size was FC 4.0, and I immediately cleaned out the tester, and tried the 10 ML sample size,
same water, result was FC 2.0 . This is a 2x discrepancy factor?
Assuming some expected discrepancy due to sample volumes, I repeated 3 more times with the same results ,within some margin of error.
I normally use the 25 ML sample size, just wondering if I should just stick with that for consistency.
But at the same time my confidence in these test kits has been rather shaken.
 
How are you adding drops? Is there a small amount of powder left in the bottom after the powder is swirled in?

More drops for the larger sample makes me think that your drops are likely too small - may not be holding the bottle completely vertical, or may be forcing them out too quickly.

We typically recommend going with the 10ml sample size, as that level of precision is just fine and counting all the drops for 5-7ppm or higher is a pain with the larger sample size.
 
But at the same time my confidence in these test kits has been rather shaken.
Hang onto your confidence and let's work through what is most important in this process. There are many good folks here who regularly use these kits and can help you figure out why you experienced differences like this from the same sample.
Is this a new kit? Are all reagents dates current? Vials cleaned before and after testing?

Now TFP recommends the 10ml sample test for FC for several good reasons. With the 10 ml test each drop used to achieve the color change from pink to clear equals 0.5ppm. Fewer drops, shorter test and a simple conversion (# of drops X 0.5 = FCppm). If you are in a SLAM use the 10ml sample and one big scoop of the powder. Using a SpeedStir, lighted magnetic stirrer, is a solid tool for titrations like this. Take notes and rely on the data to make your decisions moving forward.

The 25 ml sample test does provide a higher resolution but uses more reagent, takes more time and requires a different conversion calculation. There is really no benefit to running a 25ml test for a SLAM or regular FC testing. A resolution beyond 0.5ppm is not required.

Focus on your SLAM now. Your testing discrepancy may be as simple as an incorrect drop count and/or conversion calculation. It also may require more investigation into other areas such as your testing methods, the actual drop sizes, plugged or damaged applicator tips, etc.
 
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Hang onto your confidence and let's work through what is most important in this process. There are many good folks here who regularly use these kits and can help you figure out why you experienced differences like this from the same sample.
Is this a new kit? Are all reagents dates current? Vials cleaned before and after testing?

Now TFP recommends the 10ml sample test for FC for several good reasons. With the 10 ml test each drop used to achieve the color change from pink to clear equals 0.5ppm. Fewer drops, shorter test and a simple conversion (# of drops X 0.5 = FCppm). If you are in a SLAM use the 10ml sample and one big scoop of the powder. Using a SpeedStir, lighted magnetic stirrer, is a solid tool for titrations like this. Take notes and rely on the data to make your decisions moving forward.

The 25 ml sample test does provide a higher resolution but uses more reagent, takes more time and requires a different conversion calculation. There is really no benefit to running a 25ml test for a SLAM or regular FC testing. A resolution beyond 0.5ppm is not required.

Focus on your SLAM now. Your testing discrepancy may be as simple as an incorrect drop count and/or conversion calculation. It also may require more investigation into other areas such as your testing methods, the actual drop sizes, plugged or damaged applicator tips, etc.
Appreciate the advice, glad I came back to TFP after playing it by ear for a few years.
I've actually created a tracking spreadsheet this year, flushing it out to have a good view of my pool status startup to close.
 
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How are you adding drops? Is there a small amount of powder left in the bottom after the powder is swirled in?

More drops for the larger sample makes me think that your drops are likely too small - may not be holding the bottle completely vertical, or may be forcing them out too quickly.

We typically recommend going with the 10ml sample size, as that level of precision is just fine and counting all the drops for 5-7ppm or higher is a pain with the larger sample size.
I agree, will try again "carefully" want to track and see what develops over time.
 
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It's always possible that there's a bad chemical batch in what you've received, but it's a pretty low possibility. Let us know what you find out!
 
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You are multiplying by 0.5 (or dividing by 2) for the 10mL test and multiplying by 0.2 (or dividing by 5) for the 25mL test, right?
Because if you were just multiplying by 0.5 for each test, that would explain the results you're seeing.
 
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