Which test kit?

[Steve11k-LiqCh-1.5motor]

So, I am even more confused on what type of pool testing kit to buy.
Is there a favorite of TFP people?

 

[Newdude]

Either kit from TFtestkits.net is a better value than the equivalent Taylor K2006 or K2006C. But we can work with any of the four.


Here's the deets

Hello!

Hey all. I just posted over in the algae forum, but I thought perhaps I should introduce myself as well. I'm 30, first-time homeowner, first-time pool owner. I admittedly don't know much, but I'm DIY-minded and want to learn. I came here seeking advice after becoming quite overwhelmed this...

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Dirk]

So, I am even more confused on what type of pool testing kit to buy.
Is there a favorite of TFP people?

Not so much a favorite as it is a requirement. And its pretty simple. TFP bases its pool advice on test results. We don't/can't really offer any without those results. We accept test results from only one source: YOU. Not the pool guy, not any pool store. Those results must come from one of only two brands of kits, and from only two models of kits from each brand (so four, total). And all four kits are actually using the same brand of test chemicals, so really the kits are all the same, in terms reliability of results. See? Simple!

So it really only comes down to price and availability. See @Newdude's post above.

 

[Newdude]

Those results must come from one of only two brands of kits, and from only two models of kits from each brand (so four, total).

@stevenbutz, there are many other Taylor kits, and you can add the missing components to them to make them the same as the 'good kits', but then they're more expensive from piece mealing so we skip those steps altogether on your behalf.

If you buy the K2006 with or without the C, or the TF100, it's highly advised to also purchase a smart stir. It's an absolute game changer and the best $48 you can spend on your pool IMO.

It's included in the TFpro, which helps it whoop the K2006C that doesn't have it at the same price.

 

[Mdragger88]

If you scroll down on this link you’ll see a comparison chart between the only 4 kits we recommend (as mentioned they contain all the same reagents in varying quantities)

Swimming Pool Test Kits Compared

What pool test kit should I buy? Why shouldn't I use test strips? Our recommended test kits will pay for themselves in no time!

www.troublefreepool.com

* If you’re fighting a swamp there’s also an add on “slam option” for xtra reagents on tftestkits.net

 

[sande005]

And....ordering from Amazon can be a bit of a gamble - some of their items are NOT the test kit they are labled as. And some of those that are come with pretty old reagents. If ordering direct from Taylor, others report very long lead times - many weeks - before receiving.
tftestkits.net, while run by a member of this group, is a private enterprise. But they ship fast, use fresh chemicals, pricing is in line, and size their kits to fit the needs expressed here. Just get the TFPro. (with Salt or SLAM options, if needed)

 

[TinFoilHat]

TFPro for the win. With the added salt kit if you have a Salt Water Chlorine Generator.

 

[Dirk]

And some of those that are come with pretty old reagents.

I have found this to be true. I have had to return some, and then order a second batch, only to get the same old reagents the second time.

 

[TinFoilHat]

TF has the freshest reagents and they ship quicker too.