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Effective Water Testing Methods for Pools

Apr 28, 2025

Pool Guy Podcast Show: Water Testing Methods

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Introduction

  • Overview of different water testing methods for swimming pools
  • Encouragement to join the Pool Guy coaching program for more tips and advice

Key Water Testing Methods

Overview

  • Multiple methods can be used, no need to rely on just one
  • Choice based on factors like time of year, type of test needed

Test Strips

  • Pros: Fast, affordable (though prices have increased), good for quick checks
  • Cons:
    • Subjective, color interpretation varies
    • Total hardness (not just calcium hardness)
    • Best for quick checks and double-checking other tests
  • Uses: Great for hot tubs, spas, and when in a hurry
  • Variety: Available for different tests like phosphates, salinity, copper, iron

Reagent Test Kits

  • Pros: Accurate, good sample size for color matching
  • Cons: Time-consuming compared to test strips
  • Popular Option: Taylor Test Kits (NSF certified)
    • Models: K206 and K205
  • Usage Advice: Reagents expire, replace yearly

Photometers

  • Pros: Extremely accurate digital readouts
  • Popular Brands: Lamont Color Q series, Spin Touch
    • Spin Touch: High-end, efficient
  • Usage:
    • Uses tablets - longer shelf life
    • Highly accurate, great for commercial pools

Testing Frequency Recommendations

Weekly

  • Free chlorine, total chlorine, alkalinity, pH

Monthly or Quarterly

  • Calcium hardness: Every 3 months
  • Cyanuric acid: Every 1-3 months
  • Salt: Test seasonally or bi-monthly
  • TDS: Beginning of season, mid-season

Target Ranges (Based on Bob Lowry’s recommendations)

  • pH: 7.5
  • Alkalinity: 90 ppm
  • TDS: Max 1500 over tap water
  • Calcium Hardness:
    • Plaster pool: 350 ppm
    • Fiberglass/vinyl pool: 250 ppm
  • Cyanuric Acid: 50 ppm (80 ppm for saltwater pool)

Conclusion

  • Combine all testing methods for the most balanced water
  • Each method has a place in water testing, none should be dismissed entirely
  • For more resources, visit swimmingpolearning.com or poolgucoaching.com