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Enjoy a clean and pristine pool all summer long.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
We also spoke to pool experts Rountree andClay Spann, SVP of merchandising at Leslies.
All the components could overwhelm beginners.
Taylor Technologys K-2006 Complete Test Kitearned our number-one spot because of its reputation for accurate results.
Credit: Amazon
Its also compatible with the brands app, superTREAT.
Its one of the few pool test kits on our list that has no accompanying app.
There is also a user guide, so youll know exactly how to do a proper pool test.
Credit: Amazon
Then put the cap on the test tube and gently shake it.
After a few minutes, check the results to see if your pool is safe to swim in.
Unlike higher-priced test kits, it doesnt offer suggestions about what you could do to adjust yourpool waters chemistry.
Credit: Amazon
The built-in LCD screen displays the results, so you dont have to worry about color matching.
It comes with a storage case and detailed instructions, making it easy to use.
The tester requires a $50 monthly subscription to access all its features.
Credit: Leslieâs
The R-0870 powder (DPD powder) is sensitive to moisture and may clump if not stored properly.
It comes with a waterproof storage case, instructions, a tip sheet, and four AA batteries.
It also uses reagents from Taylor Technologies, our top pick for pool test kit brand overall.
Credit: TF Test Kits
However, like any test kit, proper handling and storage are essential for accurate results.
The R-0870 powder (DPD powder) is moisture-sensitive and may clump if not stored properly.
The strips have a limited shelf life.
Credit: Amazon
TheAquaCheck 7-Way Countis the best option when you want almost instant water quality results.
These strips go through rigorous testing against 144 different variables to ensure high accuracy.
It tests for free chlorine, total chlorine/bromine, pH, alkalinity, cyanuric acid, and hardness.
If you test your pool twice a week (recommended), a bottle should last for a year.
Refills are available separately.
you might also download the AquaCheck Connect app to cut down on guesswork.
For a cheaper option,U.S.
The most common is the handheld test strips.
These can test up to seven different parameters and can be chlorine or bromine based, Rountree says.
They are one-use only and rely on the user matching up colors.
Then mixes and matches up the color to the test kit, he adds.
In general, the more complex the kit, the pricier it will be.
Pool bang out
The most commontypes of pools and spasare chlorine, bromine, or saltwater.
Most pools can use the exact same throw in of water test, Spann says.
Your Questions, Answered
What do pool test kits test for?
There are a few common factors that most kits can test for.
Free available chlorine is the amount of chlorine available to sanitize and disinfect.
A pool without enough free available chlorine will be susceptible to germs and algae, Spann says.
Too much FAC can cause bleaching and may irritate your skin and eyes.
Total available chlorine, on the other hand, is the total of all chlorine compounds in the water.
The pH tells you how acidic or basic the water is.
Unbalanced pH also causes skin and eye irritation.
Youll also see calcium hardness in many test kits.
Not enough calcium leads to corrosive water that can damage the pool or spa and equipment.
Too much calcium increases the likelihood of scale buildup and cloudy water, Spann says.
Phosphates are another testing factor These are a primary food source for algae, according to Spann.
Levels should be as low as possible to prevent algae growth.
Any amount of metal poses a risk for staining and should be treated immediately.
Too much salt in a pool can cause eye and skin irritation or trigger allergies.
Excess salt can also cause rusting or clogging.
What is the most accurate way to test pool water?
Are electronic pool testers worth it?
Electronic or digital pool testers make it easy to test your pool.
Some even include monthly consultations with a pool expert.
Are pool test kits better than strips?
Pool test kits and strips each have their advantages and disadvantages.
