Owning a pool is fantastic, especially in the summer when we can host fun pool parties. However, whether we like it or not, we have to test the pool’s water regularly.
Testing your pool regularly is essential when it comes to managing its chemistry and guaranteeing safety.
RANK | IMAGE | PRODUCT NAME | RATING | |
1 |
| Taylor Technologies K-2006 Pool Water Test Kit | ||
2 |
| Poolmaster Essential Collection Chemistry Set, 5-Way Pool Testing Kit | ||
3 |
| AquaChek Select 7-In-1 Pool And Spa Test Strips | ||
4 |
| AquaChek TruTest Digital Test Strip Reader | ||
5 |
| Jed Standard Dual Pool Water Test Kit |
Without these tests, bacteria and germs can build-up due to a drop in chlorine levels, making it uncomfortable for guests.
To test our pools, we need a high-quality pool water testing kit. A pool water testing kit should at least be able to test the chlorine and pH of the pool and maybe even check the water’s alkalinity and other chemical levels.
While these kits can help, there aren’t too many on the market that we consider good enough.
To ensure you use the best kit possible, we’ve compiled a list of 5 strong options, so if you’re on the lookout for the best pool water test kit, be sure to stick around.
We’ve even included a buyer’s guide to help you make the best decision.
Taylor Technologies K-2006 Pool Water Test Kit
We start our list with what we consider to be one of, if not the very best pool water test kits on the market.
This pool water test kit from Taylor Technologies provides pool owners with all the levels they need to ensure the safety of their pool is maintained.
With the kit, users can test chlorine levels, alkalinity, cyanuric acid levels, and calcium hardness. These tests can be carried out on swimming pools, saltwater pools, spa pools, and hot tubs.
While the tests themselves are very accurate and effective, probably one of the best features the K-2006 pool water test kit comes with is a convenient carry case.
Everything we need comes neatly organized in one small blue carry case. This makes it much easier for us to carry out each test without getting things wrong or struggling to find the right test.
We found the kit very easy to use. Coming with plenty of instructions and guidelines, even if you’re new to pool testing, you’ll easily be able to perform each test.
We also found that you’ll be able to carry out at least 6 CYA tests with this kit.
Pros
- Handy carry case – The case helps keep things nice and organized.
- Plenty of guidelines – This kit comes with lots of useful directions and guidelines.
- Variety of tests – You can check way more than just chlorine levels with the K-2006 kit.
Cons
- Pricey – This pool water test kit is quite expensive.
Also available at: Smithsfoodanddrug.com
Poolmaster Essential Collection Chemistry Set, 5-Way Pool Testing Kit
If you’re looking for a pool water test kit that offers a variety of different tests but won’t cost you an arm and a leg, you should definitely take the Poolmaster 5-Way Pool Testing Kit into consideration.
Fairly similar to the Taylor Technologies product that we mentioned above, this kit gives users the opportunity to test the levels of a variety of different chemicals.
With this kit, you can test for chlorine, pH, total alkalinity, bromine, and acid demand.
To help you carry out each test, like the Taylor Technologies test kit, the Poolmaster 5-Way kit comes with plenty of easy-to-read guides and instructions.
So you can store your tests away easily and keep everything organized, Poolmaster has produced a small carry case that fits everything you need.
When we reviewed this pool water test kit, we were impressed with the overall product we received for the money.
Despite only being a relatively basic kit, we had everything we needed to carry out essential tests.
When we think about traditional pool water test kits, this is definitely the one that comes to mind.
Pros
- Incredible value for money – This kit is available at an amazing price.
- Carry case included – The handy carry case makes life much easier.
- Good variety – There are five different tests to choose from.
Cons
- Fewer tests – This kit won’t last as long as others.
Also available at: Poolweb.com
AquaChek Select 7-In-1 Pool And Spa Test Strips
In terms of ease of use, things don’t get much easier than test strips. By simply dipping each strip into the water before checking the color, you can easily and quickly take essential pool readings.
That is exactly what we can expect from AquaChek’s 7-in-1 Pool And Spa Test Strips. These test strips offer arguably the easiest, most hassle-free way to check a wide range of important parameters.
These include free chlorine and total chlorine levels, alkalinity, bromine levels, cyanuric acid, and total hardness.
While the test strips are quick and easy to use, we actually appreciated another feature much more. The beauty of this testing kit is that each strip tests everything.
Rather than needing to carry out individual tests for every parameter, with the 7-in-1 kit, we only need to use one strip to gather every result. Each result will be revealed on a different part of the strip.
This makes the kit even more convenient and extremely easy to use.
Unless you need to test for something specific using a digital testing kit, anyone looking for a simple, yet effective kit should look no further than this one.
Pros
- Fast and accurate – You will receive fast and accurate results in a matter of seconds with this kit.
- One test for all – Each strip will test all seven parameters.
- Easy-to-use – Simply dip each strip in the pool for a couple of seconds.
Cons
- Can be hard to read – Those with poor eyesight or problems distinguishing color could struggle to read the test strips’ results.
Also available at: Allswimltd.com
AquaChek TruTest Digital Test Strip Reader
If you struggle to read the results of water test kits, the AquaCheck TruTest Digital Test Strip Reader could be the perfect option for you.
Working alongside the AquaChek test strips, the sole purpose of this pool water test kit is to make the user’s experience more enjoyable and easy.
Much easier to read than any test strip or other color indicator, the digital test strip reader will analyze the test strip for you before displaying an easy-to-read figure on a large LCD screen.
In terms of design, apart from being efficient, accurate, and a lot easier to read, the digital reader is very lightweight and water-resistant. This just makes the device even easier to use.
When it comes to what the device can read, you can expect to easily analyze the chlorine levels, pH, total alkalinity, and bromine levels in your pool.
You should have the results of the test at your disposal in approximately 15 seconds.
That means that by using the TruTest Digital Test Strip Reader and the test strips, you’ll be able to collect and analyze the results of your water tests within one minute.
When we’ve tested different kits, we’ve struggled to find one that can do things any quicker than that.
Pros
- Easier to read – If you want a test kit that’s easier to read, this is your best option.
- Fast results – You’ll have your results in just 15 seconds.
- Easy-to-use – All you need to do is turn the device on and place a strip inside.
Cons
- Have to use test strips – You will also have to use test strips with this reader.
Also available at: 1stdirectpools.com
Jed Standard Dual Pool Water Test Kit
The final pool water test kit on our list is the Jed Standard Dual Pool Water Test Kit.
This test kit doesn’t test as many parameters as the others on this list so far which could come in handy for those of you looking for a kit that does a simple job.
The two parameters this kit does test for are chlorine levels and pH which are arguably the most important things to check in your pool. With each order, you receive everything you need in a blue carry case.
Inside the carry case, you will find all the testing equipment and a list of directions. These directions make it a lot easier to test the water while ensuring you get the most accurate results possible.
When we used this kit, we found that it offered a simple way to test our pool’s key parameters without having to spend a fortune. However, the kit does have a couple of downsides too.
In our opinion, you don’t receive many testing solutions which is a shame. The instructions in the kit could also be quite hard for some individuals to read.
Overall, if you want a cheap pool water testing kit that provides you with quick results for two important parameters, you can’t go wrong with the Jed Standard Dual Pool Water Test Kit.
Pros
- Affordable – This kit is available at a great price.
- Simple to use – The Jed pool testing kit comes with plenty of guidelines.
- Test key parameters – You can test chlorine and pH levels with this kit.
Cons
- No additional parameters – This kit can only test for the two parameters.
Also available at: Smithsfoodanddrug.com
Buyer’s Guide
Before rushing into making a final decision, there are a number of key things you need to take into consideration. To give you a good idea of what you need to think about, we have put together this buyer’s guide.
In this buyer’s guide, you will find details regarding the specific things that will impact your decision. By bearing the following points in mind, you should be able to make the best decision.
The Type Of Testing Kit
One of the most important things you need to think about is the type of testing kit you need. There are three main types of testing kits to choose from, all offering something different.
Therefore, before making a purchase you should know what each one offers. Below is some information about each one.
Liquid
Liquid tests use regents to collect results. Regents are types of liquid that come in bottles known as dropper bottles.
Providing incredibly accurate results, you will take a water sample from your pool, drop the necessary amount of reagents into the water, and then follow the instructions regarding reading the results.
If not done perfectly, this type of test can be inaccurate.
Strip Tests
Out of all three types of tests, strip tests are the easiest to use. However, they are not always the most accurate. The reason for this is that they don’t work after they’ve expired and can occasionally be tainted.
To use the strip tests, all you need to do is dip the test into the pool for a couple of seconds. This saves much more time than when taking a sample. The color of the strip will then change showing you the results.
Digital
Digital pool water testing kits also use reagents like the liquid types of tests. However, they are much easier to read because any results are displayed on the electronic device’s LCD screen.
While these testing kits are much more accurate, they do tend to cost a lot more to purchase.
What Does The Kit Test?
You seriously need to look at what the test kit you want to purchase is capable of testing.
Some test kits are only capable of testing for chlorine and pH, while others test more parameters such as bromine levels, alkalinity, and cyanuric acid.
If you only want to test for chlorine and pH, you could save yourself some money by avoiding the test kits that have more tests.
However, testing for more chemicals, etc, will give you a better idea regarding the overall health of your pool.
This will then help you maintain the pool better, ensuring all your guests and yourself enjoy the pool safely.
In our opinion, unless you’re on a very tight budget, we recommend looking for a pool water testing kit that has at least 4 or 5 different water testing capabilities.
Guidelines Included
If you’ve never tested pool water before, understanding the results and knowing what to do next can be quite tricky.
With that in mind, you should consider looking for a pool water testing kit that comes with instructions, guidelines, and diagrams that help you make sense of the results.
These guidelines should then help you understand what to do next. This again makes the whole process so much easier and hassle-free.
Portability And Storage
Most pool water test kits come with lots of different pieces of equipment that can be hard to organize and store away. Luckily for us, this issue is easily solved with a carry case.
A carry case helps to organize all of our testing kit equipment so that we know where everything is and can store the kit away safely.
As a result of these benefits, we strongly recommend only looking for kits that come with some form of carry case or a small container.
While this isn’t essential to the ability of the kit when it comes to testing the water, it is definitely something you will thank us for later.
Cost
The price of pool water test kits varies massively. Some test kits only cost $15, while others can cost upwards of $55.
It is worth noting that just because a test kit might cost $55, it might not be any better for you than a kit that cost $15.
A kit might just be more expensive because it can do more or comes with extra tests.
If you only need to carry out simple tests every so often, it makes no sense to spend way too much money. You may as well save some money and look at the cheaper options.
On the other hand, if you need a very professional water testing kit that comes with all the bells and whistles, you might need to look at a more expensive kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use A Pool Water Testing Kit In My Hot Tub?
If you’re lucky enough to own both a swimming pool and a hot tub (see also ‘CoolZone Hot Tub Cooler‘), you’ll be pleased to hear that, yes, most brands of pool water testing kits can also be used in your hot tub.
However, whether a kit will work in your hot tub will depend on the kit you have purchased.
With that in mind, you should first look at the product description to see if it is possible or not. If it is possible, you could also use the test kit in your spa water too.
What Should I Do If I Have A Saltwater Pool?
Saltwater pools still need to be tested for the same impurities as ordinary, chlorinated swimming pools. Thankfully, pool water test kits can also be used in your saltwater pool.
You should also be aware that saltwater pools should be tested for salinity. Unfortunately, most pool test kits don’t come with this capability, so you will have to buy a saltwater test kit separately anyway.
It won’t be the cheapest option, but it is a must for salt water pool (see also ‘How To Convert Your Pool To Salt Water‘) owners.
What Happens If I Don’t Test My Pool?
Not testing your pool water is quite a bad idea. Testing the levels of chlorine etc, regularly ensures the water is safe and comfortable to swim in. Taking readings also helps to identify any issues that might start to arise.
For example, without testing the chlorine levels and pH of the pool, when it drops too low, algae will start to grow.
This is just the start as other bacteria and germs will also start to grow or linger in the pool when people get out.
Final Thoughts
Testing the water in your pool is essential if you want to guarantee the safety and comfort of your friends and family.
While it can often be an arduous task, using the right pool water testing kit can make life a lot easier.
A high-quality water testing kit will be able to give you quick and accurate results that are easy to make sense of and clear to see.
In this article, we have provided you with five of the best options you will find on the market today.
Every pool water testing kit on our list will help you maintain the standards of your pool, helping you identify any issues you might have with the current chemical levels in the pool.
While they differ in terms of cost, features, and design, we are confident that no matter which test kit you choose from our list, you’ll be able to take fast, accurate, and easy-to-understand readings.
Now you have our list and buyer’s guide at your disposal, take some time to narrow down your options and work out which water test kit suits you most. By doing this, you should be able to make a positive final decision.
