Better measurements lead to better decisions.
Test strips can be convenient, but professional water treatment deserves reliable measurements and a full understanding of the results.
← Back to Water ChemistryWhy Pure Pools does not rely on strips alone
Test strips can provide quick screening estimates, but broad color blocks, lighting, handling and storage conditions can reduce measurement resolution and consistency. They are not our preferred basis for precise dosing and LSI analysis.
What do reagent-based methods offer?
Professional kits such as Taylor's use titration and comparator methods to measure sanitizer, pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness and stabilizer. Some tests provide finer resolution than color-matching strips when used correctly.
What about digital testing?
Instruments such as the LaMotte WaterLink Spin Touch use photometric readings and prepared reagents to standardize important parts of the test process. Their results still depend on calibration, appropriate sampling, maintenance and proper operation.
Why accuracy matters to LSI
LSI combines several measurements, so an error in one reading can alter the apparent balance and lead to a treatment that is unnecessary or unsuitable. The pool volume must also be known accurately before calculating chemical amounts.
No testing method is perfect. We select methods suited to the decision, follow their directions and retest when results seem inconsistent.
Continue learning about water chemistry.
Explore more of the science behind Pure Pools' approach or review your pool's readings in our calculator.