Pool water testing is essential to pool health. Testing pool water everyday is not only required by the health department, it is also the ONLY way to know what the pool chemistry is in your pool.
There are multiple ways to test water in your pool:
Controller- Will automatically read specific water chemistry (pH, Chlorine, ORP, Turbidity, etc.) based on specific controller capabilities. Controller readings still require manual readings to confirm the controller is reading correctly.
Manual- Using a test kit and a type of reagent to measure water chemistry. Must be done by a person and frequency is based on health department and facility procedures.
Common types of manual test kits:
Liquid Test Kits- matching color to determine chemical balance of water. Example- Taylor test kits
Digital Test Kits- electric test kit that uses a beam of light through a water sample. Example- IDIP
Tips when testing water
- It is so important to follow test kit directions exactly as directed by the manufacturer.
- Test water should be from a location that contains well-mixed pool water. From the controller or from at least 6” below the water’s surface.
- Do not use expired reagents or strips to test pool water.
- Replace any broken, faded or stained testing equipment.
- Clean testing equipment regularly.
- Store testing equipment inside out of the elements of direct sunlight or cold.
- Keep testing equipment away from anyone not trained to use it.
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Manual Schedule to Test Water: Manual Water Testing Schedule is dedicated by local/state health departments and individual workplace policy and procedures. It is the norm to manually test all bodies of water before they open to swimmers and multiple times during the day. Adjust testing schedule based on bather load, weather conditions, and special circumstances. |
VivoAquatics Suggestions Chlorine- everyday pH- everyday Alkalinity- Everyday Total Chlorine- 1x week Calcium- 1x week Cyanuric Acid- 1x week Phosphates- 1x week Flow- everyday |
Record Keeping- It is important to record all results every time you test the water. These records should be kept in a safe place that is easily accessible. Many health departments require records to be maintained for at least 2 years- make sure you know your local/state health department requirements. VivoAquatics encourages you to record all manual readings into VivoPoint.
Download testing basics HERE