When it comes to testing spa water, many people will use testing strips, which are little pieces of paper that will show you a quick reading of your water’s chemistry level. But how accurate are these testing strips and are they the best means of reading your water’s levels? Below, we’ll provide you with what you need to know!
Advantages of Using Testing Strips For Your Water
It’s safe to say that using testing strips to check your spa’s levels is a quick and easy way of doing so. Within approximately 10 to 15 seconds, owners can see the state of their spa’s water. These strips allow you to check everything you need quickly without taking samples to your local pool store or swim spa dealer. From time to time, it might be necessary for professionals to check your water for a more in-depth reading. However, having testing trips on hand is a great option as they are not only fast and easy to use but also cost-effective.
Overall, testing strips are reliable for getting a reading on pH balance, total alkalinity, bromine, chlorine, and hardness.
Potential Disadvantages of Using Testing Strips For Your Water
Even though they are considered reliable and accurate, test strips for hot tubs can be a bit unstable if they are not stored the way they’re intended to be. Whether it is excess moisture exposure or being left out in sunlight for too long, they can be a bit sensitive and, therefore, need to be stored properly to ensure they remain effective. Additionally, like with everything, they will also eventually expire. Therefore, it’s a good idea to check the expiration date before using them to ensure you get the most accurate reading possible. When it comes down to it, the potential disadvantages of using testing strips are pretty minimal compared to the benefits of fast and reliable spa water testing from the comfort of your own home.
How Do You Use Testing Strips For Your Spa?
As previously mentioned, testing strips are very easy to use. Simply collect a water sample and dip the testing strip into the water. Then, remove it from the water and wait the suggested time (usually about 15 seconds). Once the colours have appeared on the testing strips, you will compare the readings to the information on the bottle. You’ll find a chart on the bottle that outlines where the levels should be, and from here, you can compare the colours on your testing trips to those on the chart. The reading here will provide you with the information you need to know where adjustments may need to be made. One thing to keep in mind during this process is that you shouldn’t shake your testing strips dry but instead just let them sit for the recommended time!
How Often Should You Test Your Spa’s Water and Why is it Important to Do?
Ideally, checking the pH balance of your spa’s water should be done once per week, especially if it is being used daily. It’s important to remember that your spa’s pH should remain between 7.2 to 7.8 and if your reading is anything higher or lower, then there is an imbalance happening that needs to be addressed.
There are many reasons why regularly checking your spa’s water is key. For example, if there is an imbalance in the water it can potentially affect not only the running parts of your spa but those swimming in it, too. Water levels below 7.2 or above 7.8 can cause itchy or burning eyes for those using the water. This can also cause damage to parts of your spa, such as the pump, jets and filtration system. This is one of the many reasons why testing strips are beloved by so many because taking a few seconds every day to test your water can ultimately save you lots of time and money in the long run!
When it comes down to it, there is very little to lose and a great deal to benefit from when regularly using testing strips to check your spa’s water levels.
To learn about choosing the right spa for you and your home, download our free buyer’s guide.
FREE SWIM SPA BUYERS GUIDE
To learn how to select the perfect swim spa, download your free buyer’s guide now by clicking below!