- 1). Measure pH and chlorine levels with a test kit that uses tablets. Use only fresh tablets. Expired water testing tablets often show inaccurate levels. Clean the cells of the test kit by rinsing them with water. Dip the tester in the pool at least 1 foot from the wall and submerge it 8 to 12 inches below the water surface to collect a sample. The ideal pH is 7.2 -- the pH balance of human eyes. PH is acceptable between 7.2 and 7.7. The ideal available chlorine level is 2.0 ppm, but a reading between 1.0 and 3.0 ppm is acceptable. Test chlorine levels two or three times a week, if not daily. Test the pH at least once a week after the sand filter is backwashed.
- 2). Use a four-way test kit to measure the total alkalinity and calcium hardness. Total alkalinity should read between 80 and 120 ppm. Calcium hardness between 150 and 350 is preferred, but readings from 100 to 400 are acceptable. Perform acid demand and acid base tests with these upgraded kits, then count the number of titrant drops it takes to change the color of the samples to calculate the amount of acid or base needed for correct pH balance.
- 3). Bring a sample of the pool water to a pool suppliy store in a clean glass jar for a check on the levels of total dissolved solids and stabilizer. Swimming pool professionals can also check the total alkalinity and calcium hardness readings if you are not using a four-way test kit. Pools that suffer repeated chemical imbalances should be checked monthly.
- 4). Carry an additional water sample to the pool supply center for an evaluation of copper, iron, magnesium and manganese levels if the water in your area contains any of these metals. Stains on the bottom and sides of the swimming pool indicate metal presence in the water.
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