Testing methods

[Chris_in_FL]

Coming late to this thread. I've routinely seen wide differences over the past 3 years between my Taylor test kit results at home and the local pool store's spin tester. The spin test doesn't seem to be consistently high/low for specific measurements - it's just randomly all over the place for most readings (except pH). An example from yesterday:
pH: Taylor: 7.8 Spin: 7.8
Total Cl: Taylor: 4.0, Spin: 1.3
TA: T: 110, S: 80
CH: T: 325, S: 274
CYA: T: 75: S: 88
So I check at the pool store every month or so just as a rough sanity check, but rely on my Taylor data. I'd welcome any contrasting recent input.

 

[Rocket J Squirrel]

We have a motto here at TFP: Do not have your water tested at the pool store. Your own test kit will be more accurate and consistent.

Which exact model (starting with K) Taylor test kit do you have? You may need additional tests depending on what you already have. Also check the expiration dates on your reagents and make sure they haven't passed their dates.

 

[Texas Splash]

So I check at the pool store every month or so just as a rough sanity check, but rely on my Taylor data. I'd welcome any contrasting recent input.

Stick with your own testing using a reputable Taylor K-2006 kit or TF-Series test kit No need to go to the store for a sanity check. They won't help at all. If you really wanted a sanity check, find another TFP member in your area and compare testing that way, but not with the pool store.

 

[Mdragger88]

+1 what Rocket & Tex said.
Also, you’re riding minimum with your fc. That’s an invitation for algae should a high uv day, high bather load, or equipment malfunction come your way.
You should aim to maintain target fc levels for your cya of 80 (75 counts as 80 for chlorination purposes, always round up if in between 2 marks)
FC/CYA Levels.

 

[Newdude]

I've routinely seen wide differences over the past 3 years between my Taylor test kit results at home and the local pool store's spin tester. The spin test doesn't seem to be consistently high/low for specific measurements - it's just randomly all over the place for most readings

 

[Gotta Pool]

You aren't going to do any better than the K-2006C test kit especially if you have viewed the Taylor factory information on how to properly perform the various tests. Your own test results will be accurate and repeatable. Of course, you can always have a pool sample analyzed by the pool store to remind yourself how rough a time "those other people" are having it...