Hot Tub Forum

Original => Hot Tub Forum => Topic started by: socal147 on March 29, 2011, 11:19:59 am

Title: HTH test strip vs All Clear test method
Post by: socal147 on March 29, 2011, 11:19:59 am

I have been keeping a close watch on free chlorine levels. Since my water capacity is only @ 250 gallons, it is easy to swing levels of Cl. Why do I read zero free Cl on the strips and 1-1.5 on the All Clear. The All Clear is very similiar to the Taylor test kit.
It seems my alkalinity drops over time. Is this normal?
I will assume the All Clear is more accurate and go by that.
Any input is appreciated.
Patrick

Title: Re: HTH test strip vs All Clear test method
Post by: chem geek on March 29, 2011, 02:02:30 pm

Test strips are often bad, depending on the test and the manufacturer of the strip and its age, etc.  The Taylor drop-based tests are far better and for chlorine nothing beats the FAS-DPD test which does not bleach out (you just add more powder if you see a flash of pink), can measure up to 50 ppm, and can measure with an accurate of 0.2 ppm if you use a 25 ml sample size.  The complete kit is the Taylor K-2006 (http://www.amatoind.com/taylor-k2006-test-p-555.html), but you can get just the FAS-DPD kit, the Taylor K-1515-A (http://www.taylortechnologies.com/products_kitinfo.asp?&MarketID=1&KitID=2185) or the equivalent kit from tftestkits.net (http://tftestkits.net/FAS-DPD-Chlorine-CC-s-test-p47.html) that has more volume of reagents so is more economical.

Title: Re: HTH test strip vs All Clear test method
Post by: socal147 on March 29, 2011, 03:36:13 pm

Thanks. I will get the Taylor K-2006. No more guessing.....I like. ;D

Title: Re: HTH test strip vs All Clear test method
Post by: socal147 on April 05, 2011, 10:36:42 pm

Received and used the Taylor FAS-DPD K-2006 kit today. Wow. What a difference. The other test kits are going in the trash.  ;D