Testing your pool water regularly not only helps you detect small imbalances but also allows you to save money before a small problem escalates into something larger. It keeps your pool looking pleasant and prolongs its lifespan. 

When your pool comes in contact with chlorine, it helps in getting rid of bacteria and exposure to any pool-borne illnesses. Your pool water can be tested in different ways. Read on to learn more about three of the most common and efficient pool water testing methods. 

Pool Test Strips
Simple and affordable pool test strips serve as a quick method to determine the quality of your pool water based on pH, chlorine, and total alkalinity. Certain pool test strips also help you explore the level of bacteria, salt, phosphates, and TDS in your pool water. 

All you have to do is dip the pool strip inside the pool for about two seconds. Then, remove it while making sure it’s facing upwards and hold it still for about 15 seconds. Compare and match the colors to the respective values, and proceed to balance the chemical levels of your pool accordingly. Pool test strips also come with a wide range of testing options. While the 5-in-1 test strip tests the level of chlorine, alkalinity, total hardness, and pH balance, the 6-in-1 test strip also contains a cyanuric acid test.

Pool Test Kits
Pool test kits make use of liquid reagents to test the chemistry of your pool. They help in testing the total alkalinity, pH, and chlorination of your pool. By altering the color of a pool’s water sample, these reagents help in indicating its pH level, chlorination, and alkalinity. 

It’s often believed that pool test kits provide more accurate results when compared to pool test strips. However, that’s not always the case. Incorrect readings can occur if the vial is shaken too vigorously or if there’s even one extra drop of reagent. That being said, when the test is performed with caution and precision, the color of the water and the test kit results will provide you with all the necessary readings. In case you’re someone who prefers the pool test kit and is familiar with its workings, it might be more suitable for you in determining the chemistry of your pool.

Electronic Testing
Digital test kits and electronic pool testers have gained a lot of popularity in recent years. They help in delivering an efficient and comprehensive analysis of your pool’s water directly to your smartphone. Some of these come in the form of electronic meters that can be dipped into your pool. Once you dip the meter, the readings regarding the pH balance and TDS levels appear on the screen. 

Some other electronic testing devices include the ones that are installed in your pool and connected directly to an app on your smartphone. These have the ability to provide you with detailed read-outs of a pool’s level all throughout the day. 

Your Coventry Pool Care Experts
When it comes to keeping your pool water balanced, let the experts at The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island work with you to determine which pool water testing method will work best for you. Give us a call or stop by our pool store in Coventry today to learn more. 

ABOUT THE COMPANY 
The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island is the leading full-service pool and spa company in Rhode Island. Their business had its beginnings in 1987 when co-owner Ron Leclerc began selling pool supplies out of the back of his Camaro. In 2001, Ron and his wife Debbie opened their 7,000 square foot facility in Coventry. This extensive and beautiful showroom is the result of years of hard work and represents a long-standing tradition of excellence and commitment to giving Rhode Islanders the best pool and spa service, advice, and products.  

From installing vinyl liner inground swimming pools to selling gorgeous Dimension One hot tubs to offering free water-testing and professional service in their store, The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island is your place for everything pool and spa. They are a proud BioGuard Platinum Dealer and also offer a huge selection of other brands of swimming pool and hot tub supplies, including Loop-Loc Pool Safety Covers, above ground pools, and Hayward equipment. But, more than anything, The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island strives to give their customers a wonderful experience from beginning to end. 

Visit The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island at 2200 Nooseneck Hill Road in Coventry or at splashtime.com or give them a call at (401) 392-1300. They serve all of Rhode Island, including Coventry, West Greenwich, East Greenwich, North Kingstown, South Kingstown, Exeter, Richmond, and Hopkinton.