Pool water testing
June 1st, 2023
Author: Sam Bonner

Your Ultimate Guide to Pool Water Testing and Equipment

When it comes to owning a swimming pool, it’s not just about the fun and enjoyment that it provides but also the responsibility that comes with it. Pools require regular maintenance and upkeep to keep them in good condition, and water testing is a critical component of this maintenance. Pool water can easily become contaminated with harmful substances that can pose a risk to the health and safety of swimmers.

Regular pool water testing is essential to ensure that the water is safe and hygienic for swimming. Testing enables you to monitor the levels of chemicals in the water and make adjustments to maintain the proper balance. Learn about pool water testing and the equipment needed below.

The Importance of Pool Water Testing

Swimming pool water testing is essential to ensure the safety of swimmers and the longevity of your pool equipment. Testing the water allows you to maintain proper chemical balance and eliminate any potential health hazards such as bacteria, viruses, and algae. Proper pool water chemistry also prevents corrosion of pool surfaces and equipment, prolonging their life and saving you money in repairs.

As a swimming pool owner, it’s your responsibility to maintain the pool’s cleanliness and safety for everyone who uses it. One of the most critical aspects of pool maintenance is testing the pool water regularly. Swimming pool water testing involves analysing the water’s chemical balance to ensure that it’s safe for swimming. If the chemical balance is off, it can lead to serious health hazards for swimmers, such as skin irritation, rashes, eye irritation, and even respiratory issues.

Understanding Pool Water Chemistry

A pH level between 7.2 and 7.8 is considered the optimal range for pool water. Maintaining a proper pH level is essential because if it’s too low, the water can become acidic and corrode the pool surfaces and equipment. If the pH level is too high, the water can become cloudy and irritate the skin and eyes of swimmers.

Total alkalinity refers to the amount of alkaline substances in the water and should be kept between 80-120 ppm (parts per million). Alkalinity helps buffer pH levels, keeping the water from becoming too acidic or basic.

Calcium hardness refers to the amount of calcium in the water and should be kept between 200-400 ppm. Proper calcium hardness levels help prevent corrosion of pool surfaces and equipment, ensuring their longevity.

Chlorine levels are essential for killing bacteria, viruses, and algae in the water. The optimal range for chlorine levels in pool water is between 1-3 ppm. Chlorine helps keep the water clean and clear, preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses that can pose health risks to swimmers.

Types of Pool Water Testing Methods

There are several types of pool water testing methods, including test strips, drop test kits, and electronic testers. Test strips are the most convenient and affordable option, providing quick and accurate readings of pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels. Drop test kits are more accurate and can measure additional factors such as calcium hardness. Electronic testers provide precise readings, but they are the most expensive option.

Top Pool Water Testing Equipment on the Market

Investing in a reliable pool water test kit is crucial for maintaining your swimming pool. Here are some of the top-rated pool water test kits on the market:

  • Lovibond HSG282 Hot Tub Testing Kit – A comprehensive solution for testing the water quality in hot tubs. It includes all the necessary components for ensuring compliance with HSG282 standards, along with detailed instructions and testing logs to facilitate the process. The kit allows for testing of Free, Total, and Combined Chlorine levels, as well as Bromine and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) to ensure the water is clean and safe for use.
  • Lovibond (MD100) 6-In-1 Pool Control Photometer Test Kit – A handheld instrument designed for testing pool water quality. It has a waterproof design, a simple button layout, and a large backlit display, making it easy to use in various settings. The photometer utilizes high-quality interference filters and long-life LEDs for accurate and reproducible results.
  • Lovibond (MD100) 3-In-1 Pool Control Photometer Test Kit – This kit uses high-quality interference filters and long-life LEDs as a light source, ensuring accurate and reproducible results. Lovibond® tablet reagents with a guaranteed minimum 5 or 10-year shelf life are included, and liquid reagents can also be used. Test results are automatically recorded with time and date and can be downloaded to a PC using an additional Infra Red interface.

You can find all of these kits and more in our shop.

Maintaining Your Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs

Regular swimming pool maintenance and hot tub maintenance are essential if you want to keep your pools and tubs in top condition. Here are five of our top tips for maintaining your pool:

  1. Clean the pool regularly – Skim the surface of the pool, brush the walls and floor, and vacuum the debris.
  2. Check and balance the chemicals – Test the water regularly and add chemicals as needed to maintain proper levels.
  3. Run the pump and filter – Run the pump and filter for at least 8 hours a day to circulate the water and remove debris.
  4. Backwash the filter – Backwash the filter once a week to remove trapped debris.
  5. Maintain proper water level – Keep the water level at the midpoint of the skimmer to ensure proper circulation.

Buy Pool Equipment at JC Leisure Solutions

If you’re looking for high-quality pool water testing equipment and maintenance equipment, look no further than JC Leisure Solutions. We offer a wide range of reliable and easy-to-use pool water test kits and equipment to ensure the safety and cleanliness of your swimming pool or hot tub. Contact us today to learn more and invest in the best pool water testing equipment on the market.

With a 24/7, 365 days per year technical helpline and helpdesk/call out provision, we are always on hand to support your business
Call us: 01376 513246