Need Help on TF-100 Test Kit

[Blancmik]

So our new pool is getting water tomorrow so I figure its time to order our kit. Our contractor told us today that we are getting some test strips... after reading here that seems like a joke

When I go to order the TF-100, there are a number of options to add... hoping someone can point me in the right direction. My pool is:

• Per the permit, its 11,000 gallons
• We are in North Florida
• Pool is shotcrete with a pebble finish
• We have a Pentair cartridge filter, the IC40 Salt generator and a VSP pump

Options that I see for the TF-100

• PH Meter
• Speedstir (seems like everyone recommends this)
• Salt Test Strips
• Taylor K-1776 Salt Test (Do I need this since I have a salt generator?)
• XL Option (is is best to just spend the extra $20??)
• Standard Sampler (I'm confused on what this is for)

I also see some bundles with the Whale Brush and Skimmer Angel... any advice?

Really appreciate everyone guidance. I'm sure I'll be asking many more over the nest couple of months... this is our first pool. But we are super excited

 

[mknauss]

You should get the Taylor K1766 salinity test instead of the strips.
No need for the XL option on FAS-DPD.
Speedstir is a must.
The sample sizer many like. I do not have one.
I would be wary of the pH meter. Try the color match. It is really not that hard to compare. Just be sure to use a white background.
The Whale Wall brush I endorse. Great brush.
Skimmer net, the pool builder should be giving you one. See how it works.

 

[Blancmik]

Marty, thanks for the quick reply. I'll be making my order shortly!

 

[ajw22]

If you decide you want to give the pH meter a try you have to get pH 7.0 Standard Solution to regularly calibrate it. Search on pH Meter and you will find the threads that those of us who use it discuss calibration.

 

[Arizonarob]

I have the sample sizer as well as the speed stir, love em both!

 

[bmoreswim]

On the sample sizer, it would take me 2-3 small pours of excess water to get the amount close. So the sample sizer works well for me. But some also use something like a turkey baster to put water in the test tube to the right amount.

I like my SS.

I don’t think a skimmer angel can be used with hairnets which I highly recommend for extra debris removal, especially for pollen season or dog hair or very small leaves, all of which go through a skimmer basket to your filter.

 

[3asyB]

Wash bottles work great for sample size accuracy.

I use one for pool water and another with tap water to clean everything.

 

[cfherrman]

I use a farm syringe with no needle ($1), if you have kids keep one of the dosing syringes

 

[Blancmik]

Thanks everyone for the replies. I got the TF100, Speedstir, 1766 Salt test, PH Tester and the Whale Brush.

I’ll take another look at the socks... we get a lot of pollen this time of year!

Thank you!

 

[Arizonarob]

I’ll take another look at the socks... we get a lot of pollen this time of year!

These are good ones to use.

 

[Blancmik]

These are good ones to use.

Ordered these along with the large syringe today. Thanks everyone for the feedback.

Pool is almost full if water!

 

[eldender]

So happy to have found this! I know I've seen advice before but this was perfect.

Though, I am shocked we don't want the XL option?

 

[cfherrman]

Get the xl is your pool is green

 

[Sharkygirl]

Welcome to the forum! This is a great place to get advice. I would get an accurate measuring container with oz and ml increments as low as 1/2 oz. This way when you need to add your Muratic Acid, it will be accurate which is a must. I love my speedstir! It has made my testing more accurate for sure. Since you have a SWG pool, make sure you read the chemistry recommendations for SWG as they are different from a regular pool. For setting your SWG Percentage, I would start with 50% and adjust up or down every day until you have achieved the desired chlorine level. Remember your chlorine level is determined by your Cyanuric Acid level. Do small adjustments with your levels, big adjustments get you off track quite quickly.