Complete Test Kits
TF-100
The TF-100 uses Taylor reagents and has the same tests as the K-2006C. The TF-100 is packaged by TfTestKits.net. The quantity of each reagent is a bit different then the K-2006C and is sized for the frequency of tests you do following the TFPC Methods.
This kit does a great job testing all levels and is less expensive than the K-2006C. It uses the same chemicals and will provide the same results.........it’s just packaged by TfTestKits, not Taylor.
If you are planning to do a lot of chlorine testing due to algae, planning the SLAM Process, or doing a Baquacil conversion, then you may want to order the XL Option and have additional reagents for the test.
Taylor K-2005
The Taylor K-2005 is a test kit that gets pushed by many larger “pool stores” who feel it will kill a user if their Chlorine level EVER goes above 5 parts per million (ppm). It tests pH, TA, CH, CYA VERY well but it’s shortfall is how it tests Chlorine levels. The K-2005 uses a “DPD” chlorine test which has three very large pitfalls:
1. The DPD chlorine test will NOT show accurate results above 5 ppm. This is an issue if you wish to follow TFP methods, as we teach that it’s best to maintain a ratio of chlorine to CYA, see the Chlorine/CYA Chart, not just a firm 1-4 ppm.
2. The DPD chlorine test uses “color-matching.” You add a few drops of reagent to the water and then match the sample color to the comparator. It’s easy to mismatch the true levels.
3. The DPD chlorine test's pink sample color can "bleach out". If the chlorine is well above the 5 ppm limit, the pink sample color after the reagent is added can fade out even to being clear. This can lead one to believe the chlorine level is MUCH lower than reality, potentially leading to adding even more chlorine.
In short, the K-2005 is a good kit.........it’s just not very accurate in chlorine testing.
TFP Methods requiring FC of more than 5 ppm, such as the SLAM Process and higher CYA levels, cannot be tested with the DPD chlorine test in the K-2005. You need the FAS/DPD chlorine test in the K-2006C or TF-100.
If you have the K-2005 you can separately buy the FAS/DPD Chlorine Test to make your kit equivalent to the K-2006.
Taylor K-2006
The K-2006 is a step up from the K-2005 test kit. It does great at testing chlorine as it contains the “FAS/DPD” test. This allows a user to test chlorine well above 5ppm plus the drops make it very accurate to get your true level. Additionally, the K-2006 tests for pH, TA, CH, and CYA just like the K-2005 does. It’s a good basic kit and is the “minimum” a user should consider. The pitfall here is the small amount of reagent. Users who buy this kit often end up ordering refills rather quickly.
Taylor K-2006C
The K-2006C kit is the next step up. This kit is a very complete set as it is the K-2006 “supersized.” It does a good job giving you accurate results PLUS contains more reagents. You’re not going to run out of test supplies for a while with this kit.
Test Kits Compared
You can see a breakdown of how many “tests” you can expect from each kit at Test Kits Compared.
Test Kit Accessories
Speedstir Magnetic Stirrer
The Speedstir Magnetic Stirrer makes testing easier, more consistent and more accurate by automatically mixing the pool test water and reagents instead of hand swirling tests after each drop. It also contains a light which makes the color changes more visible, especially in low light.
