Why do my test strips show a low chlorine reading?
Have you added chlorine to your spa pool only to find the chlorine level is low?
Click the button below to learn about water quality in a spa including testing and using pH strips.
Should I use Test Strips?
Yes, but only to balance your spa water but not to check the sanitiser level. Do not use the test strips to monitor chlorine levels. Instead, you should always follow the dosing instructions on the sanitiser label.
If I don't use test strips, how do I know if my chlorine level is correct?
Instead of using test strips for the chlorine level, we recommend that you follow the certified dosing instructions on the back of the sanitiser label.
What are test strips used for ?
There are test strips with many different types of tests on a single strip. As an example, a 3-way Test strip might test for Free Chlorine, pH and Alkalinity.
Alkalinity and pH make up the majority of water balancing and you need to ensure that your water is balanced or you can risk damaging your spa and voiding the warranty through corrosion. Furthermore, if your spa water is out of balance your spa sanitiser will not work as efficiently.
Click the button below to learn about water quality in a spa including water testing and using pH strips.
What are the dosing instructions?
Dosing instructions state the quantity of spa sanitising chemical to use per litre of water for your spa. For a spa pool, it is usually represented as grams of sanitiser per 1000 litres of spa water.
You need to read the label on the back of your sanitiser to determine the correct amount for the sanitiser that you should be using.
Click the button below to learn about water quality in a spa including dosing and sanitisers.
What if I cannot dose my spa every day as the dosing instructions say?
If you cannot dose your spa each day, we recommend following the instructions on the label and use the recommended shock dose.
Related Articles
What is Spa Water Alkalinity?
What is Spa Water Alkalinity? The total alkalinity is the buffer of pH. If the TA is not correctly balanced then the pH will give you an incorrect reading. pH is controlled by the Total Alkalinity. Here is a simple way to understand the difference ...
What is pH level?
Some believe pH is this the most important component of water balance. pH is the measurement of how acidic or basic your water is. If the pH of your spa water is not kept at the appropriate level there is a greater risk of damage to the spa ...
How do I change from Chlorine or BioGuard® Armour™ to a Chlorine Free Sanitiser?
How do I change from Chlorine or BioGuard® Armour™ to a Chlorine Free Sanitiser? We recommend changing your water if it is over two months old before starting the change over process. If your water is under two months old all you need to do is follow ...
How do I fix cloudy water in my spa?
Cloudy water is a common problem in spa pools and swim spas. Your water needs to be tested regularly to find the cause so you can treat the issue. Please be aware that a combination of the below issues may be contributing to cloudiness and water that ...
Can I run my spa on tank water?
Your spa can run on tank water, but you may need to adjust the water hardness by using calcium increaser when filling the spa from a tank supply. Our Water Care Guide has more information on how to adjust the pH and hardness levels in your spa water. ...