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"Spa Water Testing"
Water testing helps assure proper sanitation & bather comfort.
The Pool & Spa Informational Website
askalanaquestion.com |
The Key To Balanced Water
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Scroll down to browse
through some archived SPA & HOT TUB questions and answers. Please click the
Spa Topics Link,
on top of every page, to access a complete listing of Spa & Hot Tub
Problem subjects, an alphabetized Website Table of Contents, Spa &
Hot Tub Equipment Information, About Alan Biographic Material, Spa
Newsletter and a Spa & Hot Tub Glossary. Use the other links to access additional
subject information.
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Proper water
management starts with the analysis and
balancing of the spa or hot tub water. Tests such as pH and
sanitizer need to be performed by the
spa
owner, on a frequent or daily basis,
depending upon the sanitizer choice and usage conditions.
If Chlorine is used, it
should be tested by a method that measures Free Chlorine, as it is the most
important. Tests such as total alkalinity and calcium hardness are performed
occasionally and can be done by a spa
owner or dealer. Tests for heavy metals such as iron, manganese or copper
should be performed at the initial filling or at the first indications of spa
water discoloration or a spa surfaces staining problem. These tests are usually performed by a spa professional.
Maintaining
or balancing proper spa or hot tub water chemistry is important to help assure optimum water
quality and to maximize the "hot water" experience.
Clicking on the underlined and highlighted
"keywords" or "catch phrases," in
the archived answers will give you
access to additional information on that topic or product.
 
( Click pictures for ordering information about all professional or
consumer testing needs. )
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More
information about
pool & spa water testing products can be found on the
LaMotte
Company Preview Page in the "Pools & Equipment" Product Information Section. Links are available to
connect you to their website.
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►
Choosing A Bromine
Test Kit?
My hot tub is on the 2-part bromine
system. What is the best way to test for bromine. Can I use a swimming pool
test kit? I see a lot more of the test strips around these days. I've never
used them. Are they reliable? Thanks for any help you can offer.
Vicky S., Coconut Creek, FL,
2/4/2010
I would not suggest that you
use a swimming pool test kit, unless it is specifically
made to test for bromine! Bromine can interfere with the pH test
and give a false high test result, if the pH test materials are not formulated
properly. Test strips have come a long way in terms of reliability, accuracy and
the number of different tests that can be performed. The majority of
test
strips can test for chlorine and bromine and the convenience and lack of liquid chemicals makes them a
choice of growing popularity. Browsing through the archives on this topic might be a
good idea. Glad to help.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
2/4/2010
►
How Often To Test Spa Water?
Everything that I read seems to give a
different answer to the question of how often spa water should be tested. What's
your take?
Alec, Marlboro, NJ,
9/23/2009
There is a lot of subjectivity on
this topic. My
feeling is that it is better to test more often than less often! I suggest that the sanitizer level and pH be tested prior to each use of
the spa. If the sanitizer level is too low, it should be adjusted and at least 1/2
hour should be allowed to pass before the spa is used. In addition, I would test the
spa after each use. This will allow the sanitizer to be replenished on an as needed
basis, decreasing the possibility of bacterial growth between uses of the spa. If
the spa is only used occasionally, it should be tested at least weekly, just to make sure
that the sanitizer level is being adequately maintained. The
proper balancing of spa or hot tub water will, in the long run, avoid many
problems.
At least occasionally, to better
assure proper overall spa water chemistry, visit a pool/spa store that has a
very reliable, professional lab such as a WaterLink or Pinpoint system, rather
than a less accurate test kit or strip reader.
To locate a dealer near you, go
to:
LaMotte Professional Testing Center Locator I hope that I have shed
some light on the subject. Enjoy the spa.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
9/23/2009
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►
Proper Sampling For Test Strips?
How is it best to sample the water, when using test
strips?
Chad, New Jersey, 1/4/2004
While is good practice to test the
water before using the spa and afterwards, how the water is sampled is
important. Follow the manufacturer's instructions!
Always shut off the pump and never immerse the test strip in front of a moving
jet. To do so might wash the chemicals out of
the
test strip and give false readings. I hope that I have been of
help.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
1/4/2004
►
Which Test Strips To Choose?
I have been using test strips ever
since I got the hot tub about 2 years ago. They seem to do a pretty reliable job.
I have been using bromine, with an Ozonator. I have seen another brand of
strips that are much less expensive. Are they as good? Thank you.
Ed M., San Jose, CA,
4/23/2011
I don't want to
say that the other strips don't work because I don't know anything about them.
But this I do know!
Test strips are not simply chemicals on paper. Test strips, for spas, hot
tubs and pools, grew out of the medical testing industry: where they were developed to run
certain blood and urine tests.
Some pretty sophisticated technology is
involved - even in test strips for this industry - in order to produce testing
materials that can provide accuracy, reliability and have a reasonably long shelf life.
Not all of the strips out there meet this standard. Sometimes, even a thing
as simple as how they are packaged can make a big difference. Test strips must be
protected against moisture, in order to maintain their reliability and shelf life.
While all test strips may have a drying aid inside to help absorb moisture,
the LaMotte Insta-Test Strips have included a more effective,
moisture-absorbing, desiccant liner in the package, for added reliability and
shelf-life. Because so much depends on
the accuracy and reliability of the test results, I would stick with the brand that has
gained your confidence and satisfaction. When using test strips always remove the
strips with dry hands and reseal promptly. Keep the unused strips away from heat,
moisture and light. I hope that I have been helpful. Please browse through the
archives on this and related topics. Enjoy the hot water experience.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
4/24/2011
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There are thirteen (13) different models of the ColorQ Digital
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►
Color Blind?
I would love to be able to test my spa water, but I am color blind. I
have to keep after my wife to read the test strips. We have an ozonator
and the dealer suggested that we maintain a 1-2 PPM chlorine level. I
can't read the chlorine or pH colors, so is there any other way to test the
water?
Bill J., 2/17/2005
Help has arrived. The
LaMotte
ColorQ are a group of hand-held, colorimeter than you can use to test for
Free & Total Chlorine, pH, Alkalinity, calcium Hardness and Cyanuric Acid.
Some models test for biguanide, biguanide shock, copper and iron, as well as
some or all of the other tests. One will be right for you. It is done simply, quickly and without having to look at any
colors or look up charts. Just read the answers on the LCD Display. The price is
reasonable and it will put you in complete control. For more information
on this product go to:
www.lamotte.com
The proper testing of spa water helps to make the hot water experience a more
pleasurable one, by helping to improve water quality and sanitation.
I hope that it works out for you and that the website was helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 2/18/2005
►
UV, Ozone And Water
Testing?
I ordered 3 or the LaMotte
ColorQ PRO 7 digital meters, from your website, a while back. Don't
know if the results would approach laboratory standards, but it's far more
accurate than the old eye interpretation. LaMotte has outdone
themselves. And it's so easy to use! The 2 biggest problems
I see are it may be better in a water tight (or close to) case, but mainly
more people need to know about it. Do you spend much time marketing
these things? I think they would sell well, if more folks knew about
them. But, the real question. Still playing with well water .
Going to add Chlorine by injection. Had bought and was gonna install
an ultra-violet light. Don't need it now. Has anyone reported on
its use or is it just a plain stupid idea to put it in my hot tub? I
sure can't notice a difference with the hot tub ozonator. In your spa
book, you mention filling the spa with softened water. I couldn't agree
more. And with the help of the LaMotte ColorQ, I now know how much
calcium to add. Thanks for the books and meters.
Rodger P., Tampa, Florida,
2/19/2008
Thanks for the purchases and your comments. Sales of the
ColorQ Water
Analyzer, and the new additions to the line, are going well.
My website reaches a considerable number of people, but there are lots more out
there. With a price of only $129.00 and the capability to perform 7
different pool or spa water tests, I think the handy case does what is
required: organizes and keeps everything in its proper place. Word
of mouth seems to play a big factor, as I am on so many favorites lists,
according to many of the writers.
UV
sanitizers make a lot of sense, especially, if you understand
their limitations. While it kills virtually everything, in the return
flow, including some of the worst microorganisms, it cannot be used alone.
You need oxidation, such as chlorine, bromine or an
ozone generator.
Even if you add an ozone generator, you might not kill all the microorganisms on
the underwater surfaces. That is where chlorine and bromine come into
play. If your ozonator is working properly and is used for enough time, it
will reduce the required amount of, chlorine or bromine, to a fraction of what
it would be, otherwise. With the proper use of UV and ozone, almost any measurable
level of free chlorine will suffice. The system is redundant and should
not be subject to rapid bacterial growth. The problems begin, when people
try and eliminate all of the chlorine or bromine. Minimizing should be the
goal. And you have the ColorQ to do the testing. While an
analytical laboratory could produce more precise answers, it would be overkill.
The ColorQ provides all the accuracy a pool or spa test requires, while
maintaining simplicity and ease of operation. I hope this information is
helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 2/19/2008
|
Visit The Test Equipment Store, for all your needs. |
►
Can Lighting Affect Readings?
The spa water test readings, seem quite different, viewed in the
spa area (Commercial Spa), with the sodium vapor lights. When I go into an
area with regular lighting, the colors seem different. Is it because of
the color of the light? Thanks
Laura. R ., 10/1/2007
The color of the light
could be the problem. Test strips and
comparator colors can be influenced by lighting and sodium vapor lights are
probably the most troublesome. Any colored or dim lighting can be a
factor. It is best to read under bright natural light or white lights.
One way to avoid all of these problems is with the
LaMotte
ColorQ Water Analyzers. There are
several models and one would be right for your situation. I hope that this
will help provide more consistency and help solve the testing difficulties..
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 10/2/2007
► A ColorQ Digital Analyzer or a Test
Strip Reader?
I am not good at matching
colors and I like the idea of the digital ColorQ water Analyzer. I saw a
test strip reader and that seems quite easy to use. How would you compare
them? Thanks in advance, for your valued opinion.
Jerry G., Dallas, TX, 6/23/2008
Photometers, such as the
ColorQ Digital Water Analyzer
are capable of better reproducibility and accuracy than any test strip. A
quality test strip, such as the
LaMotte Insta-Test
products, are able to provide test results that are reasonably and suitably
accurate. The problem comes about in trying to match the colors to the color
swatches. Using a strip reader does not impart greater accuracy and actually
adds a few more variables. How long did you wait, before inserting the strip in
the reader? How wet was the strip? Did water run, from one test pad to
the another? What was the temperature? All of these variables, and
more, affect the test results. An instrument, such as the ColorQ, is
based on the same technology used in laboratory instruments and has a long
history of successful use. Test strip readers may be convenient and fast, but
are not capable of matching the performance of a quality photometer based
tester. The feedback about the ColorQ line of testers has been highly
favorable. The same cannot be said about dealer/consumer experience with test
strip readers. I hope that this information will help you make the
right choice.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 6/24/2008
►
Spa Test Kit?
I have been using dichlor in my hot tub
and have been using test strips. They seem to be labeled for pools or spa and
chlorine or bromine. Is there a problem using this product? Thank you.
Mike, Summerlin, NV,
1/9/2003
Works for me!
Because
you are using chlorine, it is important to test for Free Chlorine: the active
sanitizing form of chlorine. This is more important than Total Chlorine.
So long as the
Test
Strips measure Free Chlorine,
I don't see a problem. I would not recommend that you use an OTO test kit. Try and
keep the Free Chlorine at 1-3 PPM. The Total Chlorine reading should be no more than
1-2 PPM higher, at most. If the Total Chlorine is much higher, you might have to
shock: a non-chlorine shock should be effective at converting the combined chlorine
into Free Chlorine. Don't forget to test for the pH on a daily basis and
the TA and calcium hardness on a regular basis. This will help keep the
spa water chemistry in balance and help maintain proper water quality and
clarity. Enjoy the hot tub.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
1/10/2003
►
Bromine Test Turning Orange?
My hot tub holds 300 gallons and the water has only been
used 2 times since it was changed. The temperature right now is 102
degrees. My chemical test kit is giving me a reading of 7.5-7.6 pH and
Alkalinity in the normal range. However, my bromine test result is a dark,
burnt orange. I have had the hot tub for 2 years and never encountered this
before. What is the problem? Too much Bromine? What do I need to do to
correct? Do I have to change the water again? The bromine in my floater
seems to be dissolving faster than ever. Please advise. Thank you so much.
This sounds like you are using an OTO
test kit and that the bromine level is very high. I suggest that you mix 4
parts of tap water with one part spa water and test immediately. Multiply the
answer by 5. A better way to test water would be with the
LaMotte Insta-Test
strips, as they perform best with high chlorine or bromine content. Scale
back on the amount of bromine being added. You might replace some water to
lower the bromine level, if water has not been replaced recently.
Otherwise, there is a bromine neutralizing chemical that you can add.
The addition of a
Spa Frog
mineral sanitizer is something that you should consider, as it will make
maintenance easier and produce higher quality water. It will reduce the
chemical consumption. All you should need is a very low level of bromine, 1-3
PPM. I hope that this information is helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 4/2/2007
►
Added No Bromine?
Excellent website, very
informative for the "chemistry challenged" people like myself. Hoping you can
help? We just purchased our spa within the last month and were given starter
chemicals: dichlor, shock, test strips, pH buffer. These are the only chemicals
we are using. The original test strips tested for Chlorine, Total alkalinity and
pH. When I ran out, I purchased a different brand of test strips that also
happened to test for bromine besides chlorine. Now these test strips are testing
positive for both Chlorine and Bromine, although we don't even own any Bromine
chemicals. I went to have water tested where we purchased the spa and received
the same results. They too were puzzled saying that it shouldn't show positive
for Bromine but didn't seem concerned. Any suggestions? Also while there, they
said that our pH was too low and that we needed to add more chlorine which I did
yesterday. All readings are now very high. I am showing 5 for Bromine, 5 for
Chlorine, 180 for TA and 8.4 for pH. Should
I be concerned or will the pH lower itself? Thanks
Barbara, Bloomfield NJ,
6/10/2004
The
test methods for chlorine and bromine are, basically, the same. It is the
color comparison charts that are different. You did not add bromine and,
therefore, you should ignore the bromine reading. There is nothing to be
concerned about, just maintain a free chlorine level of 1-3 PPM. The pH of
8.4 is too high and should be lowered. A high pH will reduce the
effectiveness of chlorine and could prove irritating to bathers. A pH of
7.2-7.6 is recommended for chlorine maintained spas. Enjoy the spa.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 6/10/2004
► Tester Comparative Reliability?
I received my LaMotte # 2058 ColorQ Pro 11
test kit last week and like it very much. However, I would like to confirm
with you how I should consider results that may disagree with my local
retailers. Acknowledging that even using proper protocols there are bound
to be variances in results by different test kits, tests done at different
times, etc., I guess I would like to know if LaMotte calibrates the
instrument before shipping and whether a properly stored instrument and
reagents should give more reliable results than our local vendors over
time. My sense is that the answer is yes to both questions, but I need to
confirm because of the results I received yesterday from
carefully controlled water samples.
Victor B., 9/30/2008
A recent trade article found that the
dealer testing of calcium hardness was the parameter subject to the
greatest errors. This was especially true of the simple drop count
testers and test strips. Photometers, of which the
ColorQ water analyzer are an example, were found
to be of the highest accuracy. Adding a test strip reader, in my
opinion, can further decrease accuracy and reproducibility.
There
are things that you can do to both increase reliability and
reproducibility. Make sure the dropper bottles are held vertical
and that distinct drops are formed. In addition, the plastic test
tubes should be clean, dry on the outside and free of scratches.
The
ColorQ Blank procedure analyzes the LED output when the little
flashing bar is going across the screen. For best results make
sure the tubes used for all the tests have comparable clarity to
those used for the blank, since that is the self calibration step.
Special color dyes are used to check the calibrations before
shipping. The algorithms are locked in and, if the dyes meet the
test protocols, the instrument goes to final assembly and is
released. Some dealers use professional testers, such as
the LaMotte WaterLink Express, which provide the best test efficacy,
when used properly.
Reliable testing will save on chemicals and help avoid problems.
I hope that this information will be helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
9/30/2008
Thanks Alan. That is exactly
what I hoped and believed would be the case. I have every
confidence that the ColorQ Pro is providing the most accurate
test I can get and the check against the retailers' tests
reinforces my belief. The instrument is a solid investment.
Regards, Vic, 9/30/2008.
►
Are The Devices
Working?
Great site
for info. We have recently purchased a hot tub and tried chlorine, then bromine
with little success. The hot tub has an ozonator and we bought a mineralizer to use in conjunction with ozonator, hoping to reduce greatly or
eliminate chemicals like chlorine & bromine. Problem we have, is knowing
whether the devices are working, as the test strips are for the chemicals. Would
appreciate any info on ways to test the devices or water to be sure THEY ARE
WORKING. I should add that we drained, cleaned and refilled tub when we
installed purifier and now back to chlorine daily & non-chlorine shock weekly.
Thank you very much for any help.
Joyce S. in New
York, 2/10/2005
Sounds like
you have tried everything. The problem is that you that didn't mention if you
actually had problems. You should be able to get ideal water quality, by using
the ozonator
and maintaining a 1-3 PPM level of bromine. There should be little chemical
presence. Make sure that the ozonator is operated for at least 4-2 hour
periods, spread throughout the day. This will provide the necessary oxidation
of waste products and make it easier to maintain the bromine level with fewer
chemicals. There's no problem testing for bromine:
test
strips are fine.
The ability to maintain a satisfactory level with a minimum use of bromine can
be taken as confirmation that the ozonation is proper. When the cover is
removed, you might be able to smell ozone: the scent of crashing waves?
Ozone test kits are available that can
be used to test for ozone.
For information click here.
You should not require chlorine or a mineral purifier. MPS should only be
added, if there is a loss of water quality or after periods of heavy bather
usage. Adding a small amount of MPS, after each use, will help restore the
bromine level. It just seems a matter of putting some trust in the test results
and your own observations. The water should be clear and there should not be
any slimy film on the underwater surfaces, as these are signs that sanitation might
be inadequate. I hope that this information helps to put your mind at
ease. Enjoy the spa.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 2/11/2005
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►
Testing For Ozone?
I have a spa (500 gal)
equipped with an ozonator and silver ion cartridge in the one filter. I shock
the spa about once a week with two tablespoons Sodium Dichloro-S-Triaznetrione
Dihydrate and add 2 tablespoons of MPS before or after each spa use. The spa is
one year old. About six months ago, I stopped smelling ozone and the dealer
replaced the ozone generator. I smelled ozone strongly for about 5 months
whenever I took off the cover, but suddenly it stopped again about two months
ago. I decided to purchase an Ozone test kit and have the
LaMotte
Model EC-63 (Code 3547) which I used today and got a strong positive
reading. But I am wondering if that might be a false test due to the presence
of other oxidizers (Cl2
and MPS). Before I get the dealer out here again, can
you tell me if it is likely these other oxidizers gave a false reading? If so,
what might I do to actually test ozone output? Thanks very much.
Owen G., PHD, Florida,
8/24/2004
The
kit should indicate that oxidizers can interfere. DPD will react with the
Dichlor and MPS remaining in the spa. There more sophisticated and
expensive methods to test Ozone, in the presence of other oxidizers, but they
involve a colorimeter with indigotrisulfonate. If the chlorine and MPS are
allowed to dissipate to zero (MPS won't take long), then a sample can be taken
near the outlet to capture an ozone reading. Basically leaving the spa
uncovered a day or so, could get the chlorine level down to zero. Verify
the result is zero, then without adding any chemicals, make sure that the
ozone generator is operating
(pump should be on low speed) and take a test. If ANY color shows up the
ozonator is operating. I hope the information proves helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 8/25/2004
►
Bromine Or Chlorine?
Hi Alan. My spa chemicals came with test
strips. The readings are Bromine levels, Free Chlorine levels, pH, and TA. In
a Bromine sanitized spa, is there supposed to be free chlorine? If so,
my other readings are all good, but there's never any free chlorine. What
should I do? Thanks.
John M., 11/16/2003
The same
test
strips are used to test for either chlorine or bromine. In a
bromine-maintained spa there is no chlorine present - it's all bromine.
You should disregard the chlorine readings, as they are meaningless, in your
case. Enjoy the spa!
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
11/17/2003
►
Difficulty Testing pH In A
Biguanide Spa?
Alan, I use biguanide for
the spa and their test strips. For some reason I find the results hard to
read. Especially pH always appears high, but when I have had the water
tested at the spa dealer it appears to be in the correct range. Is there
another test strip or kit I can use for the biguanide system that will
test pH, TA, Hardness, Sanitizer? I have had problem with calcium &
high pH that resulted the circulation pump going bad. Thanks for your
assistance
Jeff Y. Bonita Beach, FL, 12/27/2007
The strips are
convenient, but some are not as good as other test methods, when used in a
biguanide-maintained spa. The
more traditional testing materials,
used prior to the test
strips, seemed to provide good results and are probably still being used by the
dealers. For a better testing option consider using the
ColorQ
Biguanide PRO 5 Water Analyzer. It is all-digital,
requires no color matching or look-up charts and it's affordably priced. In
addition to testing for biguanide, it performs the pH. total alkalinity, calcium
hardness and Biguanide Shock tests. It is the perfect tester, for those
with any color vision impairment. I hope that this
information will prove helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 12/27/2007
►
Need To Replace?
I think that I goofed. I was
actually in my spa, when I reached over and grabbed the test strips. I may have
gotten a drop or two of water on the strips. Can this cause a problem?
Ron S.,
1/5/2005
It is a real probability. The
test strips are usually packaged with a drying aid inside. This is done to help
protect against the deteriorating effects of moisture.
Always remove test
strips with dry fingers, reseal the container and store away from light, moisture and
heat. There is no way for me to determine, if the strips are still
reliable. Most test strips have expiration dates and are packaged in quantities that make regular replacement routine, if the spa water is
being tested on an appropriately frequent basis. To be safe, replace all testing
materials at least yearly or whenever something appears different. I hope that I
have been of assistance.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
1/5/2005
►
Spa Chlorine Test Kit?
My spa came with a test kit that uses 2
liquids for the pH and chlorine test. What is the best test kit to use with my spa?
I am running out and need to but replacements. It is 275 gallons and I use
sodium dichlor. Thanks.
Andy M., CA,
1/6/2003
If the test kit that you are using
contains OTO for the chlorine test, it is not one that I would recommend. It is
important that you test for Free Chlorine and OTO cannot do that. I
suggest that you use either
Test Strips or a DPD Test Kit that is
labeled for chlorine use. These products will probably test for both
Free and Total Chlorine. In
either case, you'll be much better off, than with an OTO Test Kit. I hope that I
have been helpful. Please browse through the archives for more on this and related
topics. Enjoy the spa.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
1/6/2003
►
pH Challenged?
I have realized that my key challenge with my
spa is pH. Unfortunately, the traditional test strips are difficult for me
to read. Are the pH testers in your store really more accurate? What else
would I need to order in addition to the tester itself?
Chris
N. Reno, NV,
11/1/2006
Some people do seem to
have color perception problems and for them an electronic tester is just
what is needed. The
LaMotte
ColorQ Water Analyzer
tests for pH, free and total chlorine, total alkalinity calcium hardness and
cyanuric acid.
The kit
includes everything and there are no colors to match and no look up charts!
The test results come right up on the digital display. The instrument
is hand-held and perfect for spa or pool side use. Accuracy is
better than most other test methods. I hope that this information
proves helpful.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 11/1/2006
|
Visit The Test Equipment Store, for all your needs. |
►
Wrong Test Strips?
Thanks for your quick reply.
I think you may have misunderstood me in my question just a little. I already
added the baking soda to raise total alkalinity and pH, as my pH was reading 7
according to the strip I was using. This strip was called pHydrion Vivid 6-8.
They weren't meant for hot tubs, but figured they should read the same. I
understood most of what you suggested but was wondering if my readings were
artificially high being that I took my water sample to the spa store only 20
minutes after adding the baking soda? Is muriatic acid ok to use as I have some
already? If it is could you suggest amounts? Thanks again.
Darren H., 4/21/2005
You're right,
I did misunderstand you and I wasn't aware of what you were actually describing
as a test strip.
You are not using a
test strip, at all. You are using an industrial pH paper that is only
intended to be used as a ballpark figure and not to test pool or spa water.
That's why there was no agreement with the pool store.
I suggest that you use pH
reducer granules. If you insist on using muriatic acid, add no more that a
few ounces at a time and retest with an appropriate spa tester: something
like the
LaMotte Insta-Test strips would be ideal. Remember, you can
always add more -- you can't take out! I hope that I have been helpful
and help set the record straight.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 4/21/2005
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Proper water chemistry will help to better control and avoid sanitation
problems and maintain more optimum bathing conditions.
More information about Pool/Spa Water Testing Products can be found in the
Test Equipment Store. |
(Click on any image for ordering and information.)
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