Pool Test Strip Results Explained: What Do Those Colors Mean?
Learn how to read pool test strips correctly and understand what your test results mean. Complete guide for Australian pool owners.
How to Use Pool Test Strips
- Dip the strip: Submerge test strip in pool water (elbow deep) for 2-3 seconds
- Remove immediately: Take strip out and hold horizontally (don't shake)
- Wait: Wait 15-30 seconds (check bottle for exact timing)
- Compare colors: Match each pad to the color chart on the bottle
- Record results: Write down all values
- Calculate treatment: Use PoolCalculator.com.au to get dosing recommendations
Understanding Test Strip Colors
pH Test Pad
Colors: Yellow (low) → Green → Blue → Purple (high)
Ideal: Light green to blue-green (7.2-7.6)
Yellow = Too acidic (add pH increaser), Purple = Too basic (add pH decreaser)
Free Chlorine Test Pad
Colors: White (none) → Light pink → Dark pink → Purple
Ideal: Light to medium pink (1-3 ppm)
White = No chlorine (add immediately), Dark purple = Too high (wait for levels to drop)
Total Alkalinity (TA) Test Pad
Colors: Light green → Medium green → Dark green
Ideal: Medium green (80-120 ppm)
Light green = Low TA (add alkalinity increaser), Dark green = High TA (may need acid)
Total Hardness (Calcium) Test Pad
Colors: Pink (low) → Red → Dark red (high)
Ideal: Medium red (200-400 ppm)
Pink = Low hardness (add calcium), Dark red = High hardness (may need dilution)
Common Test Strip Mistakes
- Reading too early: Wait full 15-30 seconds for accurate colors
- Shaking the strip: Hold horizontally, don't shake off water
- Old test strips: Check expiration date - old strips give false readings
- Wet hands: Don't touch pads with wet fingers
- Wrong lighting: Read in natural light, not artificial
- Not storing properly: Keep strips dry and sealed
What to Do After Testing
- Record all test results
- Enter results into PoolCalculator.com.au
- Review treatment recommendations
- Add chemicals in correct order (TA first, then pH, then chlorine)
- Wait 4-6 hours between different chemicals
- Retest after 24 hours
Calculate Your Pool Chemistry
Enter your test strip results into our free calculator to get instant treatment recommendations.
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