The most important part of maintaining your pool is ensuring the water is safe to use. That’s why you need pool chemistry testers.
While a variety of chemistry testers are available, they all have one thing in common — helping you to determine whether your water is balanced or not.
Picking the right type depends on your needs. As long as the test provides accurate results, it’s a great tester.
Importance Of Pool Chemistry Testers
Your water chemistry can change quickly. If the pH changes or the chlorine levels change, the water can be too dangerous to swim in. Testers or testing kits help you better understand your water’s chemistry.
Most kits do come with a guide to better understanding what you’re testing for and what the numbers mean. We also have a quick guide to help you understand what your ideal numbers are.
The Four Types Of Pool Testers
Test Strips
The most common and inexpensive option. Dip the strip in your pool, pull it out, and compare the results to the color chart included with the kit. Buy strips that test for multiple chemicals at once for the best value.
Liquid Test Kits
Collect a water sample using the provided cup, add drops of testing solution, and compare the color the water turns. More accurate than strips, especially when testing for multiple chemicals like pH and chlorine.
Digital Testers
Fill a small attached cup or dip the tester into a sample for fast, precise readings. No color-matching guesswork. The most accurate option outside of professional testing.
Professional testing is also available. If you have a local pool store in your area, you can collect a sample and have the store test it. This offers the most accurate results at roughly $20–$50 per visit. Not all pool stores offer this service. However, it’s a good idea to have your water professionally checked occasionally to ensure the numbers match the testing kit you use at home.
Tester Comparison At A Glance
Using Pool Chemistry Testers
When using pool chemistry testers, always follow the instructions provided with the kit. Even if you’ve used test strips before, read the instructions if you’re using a different brand. The last thing you want to do is misunderstand the results and add the wrong chemicals to your pool.
Test Weekly at Minimum
Your water chemistry shifts constantly. A weekly schedule catches problems before they become visible — or dangerous.
Test After Rain or Storms
Rainwater dilutes chlorine and lowers pH. Always re-test and rebalance after heavy weather, especially in Hawaii.
Test After Heavy Use
Pool parties introduce contaminants fast. Sunscreen, body oils, and sweat all reduce chlorine levels significantly.
Test After Adding Chemicals
Wait 24 hours for chemicals to fully circulate, then re-test to confirm your numbers are in the ideal range.
The Best Tester
For the average pool owner, pool test strip kits are typically the easiest to use. They’re also widely available and inexpensive.
Most pool owners use either strips or liquid test kits. If you’re not sure which you prefer, try both to see which is easiest for you to use and offers the most accurate results.
Our recommendation: Use test strips for your weekly checks and invest in a liquid test kit for a more thorough monthly test. Have your water professionally tested every few months to verify your at-home results are accurate.
Skip the Guesswork — Let the Pros Handle It
Koko Head Pool Service tests and balances your water chemistry as part of every service visit. Spend more time enjoying your pool and less time testing it.
Get a Free QuoteDon’t forget that regular pool maintenance is the best way to keep your pool sparkling and clean all year long. Spend more time enjoying your pool and less time maintaining it by letting Koko Head Pool Service handle the maintenance for you.