Maintenance Guides / Pool & Hot Tub

Test pool water chemistry

Difficulty: easyTime: 15 mins

Why it matters

Out-of-balance water corrodes equipment, damages liners, causes algae blooms, and creates health hazards like bather illness. Testing weekly during season ensures safe, clear water.

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How to do it

  • 1

    Turn off circulation pump and wait 2 minutes for water to settle.

  • 2

    Collect sample 12 inches below surface, away from returns and skimmers.

  • 3

    Test pH using your kit; target 7.2–7.6 for chlorine effectiveness.

  • 4

    Test free chlorine; add chlorine if below 2 ppm, shock if above 4 ppm.

  • 5

    Test alkalinity; adjust with pH increaser or decreaser as needed.

  • 6

    Record results and adjust chemicals per test kit recommendations.