A lot of people think that having your own pool is all fun and games, but that is far from the truth.
During the winter months, keeping the pool clean from debris and any bacteria is an absolute necessity. So, it is something my family and I always do together. But recently, my friend Phillip and I got talking about pool maintenance, and he asked me what I do to test the water.
My surprised reaction towards the question made my unawareness evident, and that’s when we spoke about testing kits in detail. Hi! My name is Stacy, and if you are new to the concept of pool test kits, you’re in the right place.
I have put together this comprehensive guide on some of the best pool test kits in the market. Hopefully, this will help make the concept of water testing clearer.
So, without further ado, let’s get right into it.
Top 5 Product Reviews
1. JNW Direct Pool And Spa Test Strip
One of the very first ones Phillip asked me to try was the test trip by JNW Direct. He mentioned that it is one of the best pool test strips in the market and is highly recommended by pool owners.
Product Highlights
The JNW test trip is ideal for people that love to test the water very often as it has 100 strips. When testing pool water, the free Chlorine, pH, and alkalinity test should be done weekly. On the other hand, calcium hardness can be checked monthly. This means a pack like this is bound to last a long time.
In total, this kit allows you to conduct seven different tests, and they are all straightforward to use. Be it for your pool or spa- the JNW direct test strip allows you to check hardness, chlorine, bromine, cyanuric acid, pH, and alkalinity.
In addition, the instructions are straightforward as all you need to do is dip the strip in the water and compare it to the color chart given. There is also a mobile app where you can monitor and keep a record of the results.
What’s There To Like About It?
One of the first things I loved was how easy it was to use. Since this was one of the first pool test kits I was using, the color chart in the back of the bottle helped. Plus, the app was quite beneficial since I could record the results and keep track of it.
Moreover, the test kit has about 100 strips. Since all these tests only need to be conducted once or twice every few weeks, this kit lasts for a long time.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
The accuracy of some of the tests was what I was concerned about. I noticed that this test kit is very accurate for the alkalinity, Chlorine, and pH tests. However, the cyanuric acid test kept fluctuating in its results. Also, the app does not scan the results, and so it has to be manually put in.
Pros and Cons of JNW Direct Pool And Spa Test Strip
Pros
Cons
- AFFORDABLE 7-IN-1 POOL TESTING KIT: Our 100 pool test strips provides an affordable, all in one pool water testing kit for various chemicals including Free Chlorine, Alkalinity, pH levels and more!
- QUICK & EASY: Simplify your pool and spa testing with our easy pool testing strips. Just dip our hot tub test strips into the water for 2 seconds, wait for 30 seconds, and compare the results accurately to the provided color chart.
- ACCURATE & RELIABLE: Our swimming pool test strips deliver highly precise readings, ensuring the safety and cleanliness of your pool or hot tub water. Utilize our pool strips at least twice a week for optimal maintenance.
2. WWD Pool 2-Way Test Kit
The next test kit I highly recommend is this one by WWD Pool, as it is simple to use. I came across this particular one when I was looking for an alternative to test strips.
Product Highlights
The WWD Pool kit is ideal for people looking for a straightforward testing kit. There are two variants of the testing kit available - two-way and six-way. The two-way kit only checks OTO, CL, and pH levels, while the six-way kit is more extensive and can test the water on multiple parameters.
Now, let’s go into some more details about the kit. It has 1/2 ounce bottles of chlorine solution and pH solution along with plastic test tubes. Additionally, one great thing about this kit is that the tubes have a block attached that tells what the reading should look like. Hence, it is much easier to compare the result with the appropriate reading.
You will appreciate that all of this comes in a polyethylene carrying case, making it much easier to store. Also, it has a user test kit that gives out detailed instructions about testing the water.
What’s There To Like About It?
For me, it was the process of testing which was the highlight. I found it to be effortless as it only took a few minutes. All you need to do to test the water is fill the test tubes with pool or jacuzzi water, add the solutions, and close it with the caps. After that, shake the tubes till the color changes.
The attached color blocks with the test tubes were quite helpful since I didn’t have to keep referring to the user guide.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
While the accuracy was quite good on the test, I was a bit disappointed with the quality of the equipment. The plastic test tubes and caps were not up to the mark and seemed like they could break any minute. I found my fingers to be a better alternative to keep the tubes shut instead of the caps.
Pros and Cons of WWD Pool 2-Way Test Kit
Pros
Cons
- 2 Way Pool Water Test Kit For Test For OTO, CL, and PH Level
- Includes clear view water testing unit with accurate measuring scale and integrated color for easy reading chemical leaves
- Includes one 1/2-ounce bottle chlorine test solution, one 1/2-ounce bottle pH test solution, plastic tester and carrying case
3. Poolmaster Water Chemistry Case (22270)
Next on the list is the Poolmaster testing kit that was recommended to me by my neighbor, Angie. This is a bit more extensive than the WWD testing kit, as it is a five-way test kit.
Product Highlights
If you are looking for a simple test kit that can cover most parameters, this is the one. The Poolmaster Water Chemistry Case (22270) is ideal for people looking to test the water before using it thoroughly. Additionally, it is beneficial to have a test kit like this by your side if many kids are using the pool or jacuzzi.
This test kit has all its contents in a polyethylene carrying case, making it easy to store and keeping everything safe. The carrying case contains five solutions and a testing block of two tubes, and a color chart. Additionally, the solutions are in different sizes - numbers 1 to 3 are ½-ounce bottles, while numbers 4 and 5 are 1-ounce each.
Overall, this is a simple test kit that can test for chlorine, bromine, pH, acid, and total alkalinity. It is important to note that the number 2 solution (red) is not interchangeable with any red phenol solution.
What’s There To Like About It?
Similar to the WWD kit, I found this one to be just as easy to use. I dipped the test tubes in the water and added the solutions to get the readings. The added advantage of this particular test kit was that I could test for a lot more than just pH and alkalinity. Plus, the readings were quite easy to understand.
Moreover, despite being a five-way kit, I found it pretty affordable compared to some of the smaller kits in the market.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
While this kit was quite extensive in terms of the parameters, I could not test for calcium hardness. This parameter is essential for me as I have a hot tub that needs to be tested for calcium. Just for one parameter, I had to rely on a different test kit which was rather inconvenient. Other than that, there was no issue with this test kit, and I still highly recommend it.
Pros and Cons of Poolmaster Water Chemistry Case (22270)
Pros
Cons
- 5-WAY WATER TEST KIT: Tests five key pool and spa water chemistry levels including chlorine, bromine, pH, acid demand and total alkalinity for balanced, clean water
- ACCURATE EASY-TO-READ RESULTS: Clear-view acrylic test block with built-in color chips helps provide fast, reliable color matching for simple at-home water testing
- FOR POOLS, SPAS AND HOT TUBS: Ideal for in-ground pools, above-ground pools, spas and hot tubs; helps maintain proper sanitizer levels and balanced water chemistry
4. Varify Pool & Spa Test Strips
While I was looking specifically for test strips, I came across this one by Varify. There is a lot that caught my eye, so I had to give it a shot. Before getting into why I liked it, let me elaborate on some of its features.
Product Highlights
If you think strips are a bit of a hassle when it comes to testing, think again. The Varify pool and spa test kits are ideal for people who are looking for an “in and out” process. With these strips, you can have the results in about 30 seconds. And, even within 30 seconds, this test kit is as accurate as any other kit in the market.
The Varify pool and spa testing kit tests the water in seven parameters - chlorine, bromine, alkalinity, pH, and cyanuric Acid. The bottle contains 50 strips with non-bleeding colors that are individually packaged so that they remain fresh, clean, and reliable. Additionally, the bottle has a non-fading waterproof color chart that will assist you with the readings.
You will also appreciate that the company has a very supportive customer care team that is happy to help 24x7. The company has been in this business for many years, and its team is trained to answer any question.
What’s There To Like About It?
The best thing about this testing kit was how easy it was to test and how fast the results were. There are 50 strips in there, and all of them have a non-bleeding color making it easy to read the results. To test the water, I just had to dip the strip in, keep it in for 30 seconds, and when I took it out, the patches changed color.
After that, I compared the color chart on the back of the bottle, and that’s it. The whole process took less than 5 minutes. Additionally, a refill pouch of 50 strips is readily available.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
There is not much to dislike about this test kit. However, I did find the colors on the color chart quite odd. They aren’t like most of the other test kits, making it difficult to cross in terms of accuracy. This is especially the case when testing the pH, as the colors are unusual.
Pros and Cons of Varify Pool & Spa Test Strips
Pros
Cons
- 7 IN 1 TEST STRIPS: Simplify your pool and spa maintenance with Varify’s versatile test strips, capable of monitoring seven essential water quality parameters: Total Chlorine, Free Chlorine, Bromine, Total Hardness, Total Alkalinity, pH, and Cyanuric Acid. This all-inclusive kit ensures your swimming pool or spa water remains pristine and safe for use.
- EASY TO USE AND READ: Varify’s test strips are designed for ultimate user-friendliness. Just dip a strip into your pool or spa for instant testing. The strips feature a waterproof, non-fading color chart that makes it easy to compare results and assess water quality accurately, even for those new to pool testing.
- FAST RESULTS: Get accurate and reliable results in under 30 seconds! Varify’s Pool and Spa Test Strips provide a rapid testing solution, allowing you to quickly gauge the health of your pool or spa water. Perfect for busy pool owners and spa enthusiasts looking to save time without compromising on quality.
5. Hach AquaChek 7-way Test Strips
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The last one on the list is the Hacjh Aquachek seven-way test strips that were recommended to me by my son. Although I was using test kits at the time, he mentioned using these strips and getting accurate results, so I decided to try one final product.
Product Highlights
These water testing strips are just as easy to use as any other in the market. Within a few minutes, you have accurate testing results without the hassles of measuring solutions or cleaning up chemicals. Interestingly, all the strips have been pre-screened in labs, so you know they will be accurate.
This kit is quite extensive yet affordable, which is rare when it comes to testing strips. It can test the water on seven parameters- free chlorine, total chlorine, bromine, pH, alkalinity, cyanuric acid, and hardness. Additionally, the bottle has about 100 strips, so you can keep testing the water at your convenience.
Moreover, most Hach testing kits come with a water chemistry log that makes it easier to keep track of the result. The color chart is on the side of the bottle, and it is waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about any damage.
What’s There To Like About It?
These were relatively simple to use, and the color scheme was easy to understand as well. I also like that the company has not over-complicated the process and the products. Moreover, getting the result was fast too. After just a few minutes of dipping, I had comparable readings to the color chart provided.
I particularly like the colors on the color chart. It was universal and straightforward, making it easy to compare the results with other test kits.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Comparing the test results with other kits, I realized that they were not entirely accurate. There is a bit of a +/- when it comes to specific parameters. That being said, the same company has many more products that you can choose from that are far superior and more accurate.
Pros and Cons of Hach AquaChek 7-way Test Strips
Pros
Cons
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Buyers Guide
Now that I am done reviewing the pool test kits let’s move on to buying one. I’m sure you know how important it is to buy a test kit. An imbalance in the water’s chemistry can cause a lot of issues to your health and skin. Hence, purchasing an accurate and reliable test kit is crucial.
But, there are so many to choose from that it can be challenging to pick just one. This is why I have put together this little buyer’s guide to help you make the right choice.
1. Ease Of Use
The first and most important thing is that the test kit has to be easy to use. When it comes to kits like these, it must not take any more than a few minutes to get the results. After all, no one wants to have multiple solutions that make water testing look like an elaborate science experiment.
Moreover, the color chart should be easy to understand as well. It is always preferable to have a color scheme that is consistent with other kits so you can compare for accuracy. Other than that, having easy-to-open bottles and easy-to-hold test strips is a must.
2. Consistency
One of the most important factors here is that the pool test kit should be consistent in its results. This is only possible if the instructions are detailed and adequately explains how the testing process works. It can be super confusing if the test results are different each time, which might lead you into buying multiple kits.
The best thing would be to go through the instructions and reviews of the product before buying them. Knowing how other users are managing with the kit might bring some peace of mind in this regard.
3. Accuracy
It goes without saying that accuracy is vital when it comes to testing kits. No matter how fancy a kit may look, it is useless if it cannot give you accurate results. As the purpose of the kit is to provide accurate readings, the company should be able to back up how accurate they are.
Every reputable brand has a way of confirming the accuracy of its kits. This is why I always opt to buy from more popular brands with reasonably priced products. However, if you are looking at a relatively newer brand, make sure to check the reviews.
4. Type
Pool testing kits can be of various types, and while every type is as accurate as the next, it all comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a fast and efficient test kit but don’t want to handle chemicals, I suggest going for test strips. This is because test strips are simple and only require you to dip the strip in the water.
The only issue here is that the accuracy can be a little up and down. Moreover, these are preferred only for less extensive testing like for pH and chlorine. On the other hand, if you want to test calcium and cyanuric acid, I suggest opting for test kits with solutions. These are much better and more extensive as they can test the water up to seven parameters.
5. Value
Value for the products purchased is always an important criterion. There is no point in spending a lot of money on something that can only be used once or twice, no matter how accurate it may be. I have found that simple test strips tend to last a bit longer than test kits with solutions, as there are up to 100 kits in a bottle (for some brands).
Moreover, these strips have a long shelf life of about two or three years. Since testing is only done once or twice a week, these strips will last for as long as their shelf life. That being said, the solutions can also last long but perhaps not as much as the strips. This is why the value for the strips is much higher.
FAQs
Usually, the testing times depend on what you are testing for. For pH, chlorine, and alkalinity, I suggest testing twice every week. But for calcium, bromine, and cyanuric Acid, I recommend testing once a month.
Solution-based kits are more accurate than strips, but they are both effective nonetheless. I recommend buying only high-quality kits if you want consistent accuracy.
My Final Recommendation
And that’s all, folks! With that, I come to the end of my review on the best pool test kit. I hope this comprehensive review and guide has been beneficial and will allow you to make a quicker decision.
I also understand that you might not have the time to read everything, so allow me to tell you my two favorites out of the ones I have mentioned. The first one would have to be the Poolmaster Water Chemistry Case (22270), as the results were most accurate with that one.
This is followed by the JNW Pool and Spa Test Strips because testing was much faster and easier than other kits. While they both had their drawbacks, I found myself repurchasing these more frequently.
On that note, I shall now sign off, but I will be back soon with more guides and reviews. Let me know which ones you liked the most.
See you next time!