Which pool test kit do you need? Choose a method that measures the parameters your water care requires. For a chlorinated pool, you need to monitor pH and chlorine. Alkalinity helps you understand recurring pH fluctuations. A digital pH meter measures only pH and therefore does not replace a chlorine test.
What matters most is using the test correctly: a consistent sampling routine, fresh reagents, the correct reading time and recorded results. Here we compare test methods and specific products in Pooltime's range.
Compare test strips, a manual test kit and a digital pH meter
| Product and method | What it measures | When it is useful | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bayrol Quicktest – test strips | Free chlorine, bromine, pH and alkalinity, according to the product description. | A quick check of several parameters with the same strip. | Follow the immersion and reading times on the packaging. Keep the strips dry and check their expiry date. |
| OTO-pH test kit – manual colour comparison | Chlorine and pH in two separate sample compartments. | Testing with reagents and a fixed colour scale. | Check the instructions to see which chlorine parameter the method measures. It should not automatically be treated as a free chlorine test. |
| CheckKit Micro pH10 – digital pH meter | pH, with a measuring range of 0–14. | When you want to read the pH on a display. | Requires regular calibration. Calibration solution is not included. Supplement it with separate testing for chlorine and other necessary parameters. |
A method is not accurate simply because it is digital. Sampling, measuring range, reagents and maintenance affect the result. Also check that accessories fit your exact meter; a tablet refill pack is not a complete meter.
What do the readings mean?
pH – water balance
pH describes how acidic or alkaline the water is and affects how water treatment works. Delphin's care guide, available among Pooltime's manuals, gives pH 7.0–7.4 as a guideline. Also follow the instructions for your pool surface, equipment and the products you use.
Free chlorine – distinguish it from other chlorine readings
Check which parameter your test actually measures. Free chlorine and total chlorine are different measurements and should not be compared as if they were identical. Choose a test that provides the checks required by your chlorine product or dosing equipment.
Alkalinity – helpful when pH varies
Alkalinity describes part of the water's buffering capacity. If the pH repeatedly changes quickly, checking alkalinity is relevant. Delphin's care guide gives 80–120 mg/l as a guideline. Use the instructions for your installation when deciding whether and how to adjust the value.
Salt level and other parameters
A salt chlorinator may require a separate check of the salt level. A test measuring pH or alkalinity does not automatically measure salt. Recurring water problems may require additional parameters to be analysed; choose them according to the problem and the equipment instructions.
Source for the guideline values: Delphin pool water care guide (PDF). The product information above was checked on 8 October 2026.
How to take a comparable water sample
- Prepare the test. Check expiry dates, clean sample containers and ensure that the reagents or calibration are appropriate for the method.
- Take the sample consistently. Follow the test instructions for sampling depth. Avoid sampling directly at an inlet, skimmer or dosing point.
- Follow the specified quantities and times. Fill to the correct mark and use the specified amount of reagent. Read the result at the time stated by the manufacturer.
- Compare in suitable light. Colour tests must be assessed against the correct colour scale and according to the instructions.
- Record the result. Write down the date, time, readings and any action taken. Also note rain, heavy bathing use or chemical treatment.
- Measure again after taking action. Wait for the time specified in the product instructions and let circulation mix the water before assessing it again.
When should pool water be tested?
Establish a regular routine during the swimming season and follow the care instructions for your installation. Delphin's guide recommends checking pH daily or every other day. Adapt checks to usage and test more frequently when conditions change, for example after heavy rain, heavy bathing use or treatment.
Automatic dosing does not eliminate the need for manual checks. Follow the equipment instructions for verification measurements, cleaning and calibration.
Common errors that affect the result
- Test strips that have become damp or reagents past their expiry date.
- The wrong amount of water, wrong reagent or wrong reading time.
- Sampling near a dosing point or before added products have had time to mix.
- Confusing free chlorine, total chlorine and other parameters.
- A digital pH meter that needs calibration or whose sensor has been handled incorrectly.
- Making several adjustments at once, making it difficult to track which action produced which result.
Frequently asked questions about pool test kits
Can I use the same test for a saltwater pool?
Check that the test is intended for the water and parameters you need to monitor. You still need to check pH and disinfectant level. The salt level may require a separate measuring method.
Why do two tests give different results?
Start by checking that they measure the same parameter. Then compare sampling, reading time, measuring range, reagents and calibration. Repeat the tests under the same conditions before changing the dosage.
How much pool chemical should I add?
Dosage should be based on measured values, actual water volume and the instructions for the specific product. Do not mix chemicals. Follow the label's handling instructions, waiting times and conditions before using the pool again.
Read more about pool pH and how a salt chlorinator works. Contact Pooltime if you need help choosing a test for your equipment.
Find chemicals for your pool
Explore our range of pool chemicals for routine pool water care.
View our pool chemicalsContent updated on 8 October 2026.
