It is vital to test pool and spa water on a regular basis. Test kits range from very basic to elaborate. A basic test kit should analyze the following parameters:
1. Pool disinfectant (including free, combined, and total residuals);
2. pH;
3. Total alkalinity;
4. Calcium hardness;
5. Cyanuric acid (when applicable)

All test reagents must be kept in a cool, dark place - don't leave them in the sun! The shelf life of many testing reagents is short (six months), and faulty readings may result if the test kit and reagents are not cared for. Be sure to purchase new reagents for each swimming season as well.

Although it may be simple and informative for you to manually perform chemical readings with your test kit, the process does take time. If this seems too tedious, you can use electronic equipment. Some of these devices not only monitor the water chemistry, but can also make the necessary chemical adjustments for you. Pool automation can greatly reduce some of the work and worry associated with maintaining a pool or spa. Ask Proline for more information on pool automation for water chemistry. Chemical companies and test kit manufacturers also provide many free publications with their pool products to help you better understand pool chemistry - take advantage of their offers.

Tips for Accurate Water-Testing
1. Wash your hands before and after each use of the test kit.
2. Grab a representative water sample by reaching at least 12 inches down beneath the surface and away from any inlets.
3. Keep vials and test tubes impeccably clean to avoid false readings due to contamination.
4. Never interchange reagents of different brands and test kit models of similar brands
5. Do not touch samples with your fingers (special caps are provided for this purpose.)
6. Do not shake samples vigorously, but swirl them gently to mix pool sample with the reagent.
7. Keep all test kits and reagents out of the reach of children and keep them in a cool, dark place.
8. Mark all your reagents with the date of purchase.

Water Chemistry • Popular Disinfectants • Chorine • Calcium Hypochorite • Sodium Hypochlorite • Stabilized Chlorines •
Bromine • Other Disinfectants • Water Balance • pH • Total Alkalinity • Calcium Hardness • Total Dissolved Solids •
Balancing Pool Water • Water Testing • Pool Vacs & Sweepers •

Pool Maintenance • Daily Chores • Weekly Chores • Solving Common Problems • Cloudy, Milky Water • Malodorous, Irritating Water
Green Water • Red or Brown Water • Blue - Green Water • Blue or Black Water • Pump Problems • Sand in Pool •
Excessive Water Loss • Excessive Foaming