<%@ Language=JavaScript %> <% SYS_BRANDID = 2; main(); function main() { CheckAuthentication(appName); var l_msg = getRequestStr("Msg"); dbInit(); //place this in the main fcn on each page the dealer locator is displayed var dlObject = processDealerLocator(); //----------------------------------------------------------------------- //place this in the main fcn on each page the product search is displayed var psObject = processProductSearch(); //----------------------------------------------------------------------- putBackURL("CompanyInfo",new Array("msg","Mode")); putBackURL("UserList",new Array("msg")); putBackURL("News",new Array("msg")); putBackURL("ProdSearch",new Array("msg")); putBackURL("Home",new Array("msg","Product","ProductKeyword","DealerZip","DealerType","BrandID")); pageContent(l_msg, dlObject, psObject); } function pageContent(msg, dlObject, psObject) { %> www.robarb.com
nav goes here<%displaySideNavigation();%>
Water Testing Tips

Whether you’re using chlorine or bromine, 4-Way Test Strips allow you to use one product to quickly check your water’s readings.

For the most accurate testing results, it’s important to follow the directions carefully. For usage directions please refer to the General Use Tips.

If you’re experiencing a particular problem during testing, choose from the list below for the best solution:
Problems Reading Total Bromine or Free Chlorine
Problems Reading Total Alkalinity
Problems Ready pH

General Use Tips
  1. Store test strip bottle indoors in cool, dry area. The inside of the bottle is lined with a special coating to protect moisture from contaminating the test strips. Be sure to reseal the bottle lid firmly after each use.
  2. To remove strips, shake strips out of the bottle and dry fingers before picking up the strip.
  3. For pool testing, immerse the strip at least 12 inches below the water surface.
  4. For spa testing, immerse the strip just below the water surface.
  5. Swirl the strip underwater 3 times in a 1-foot circle.
  6. Remove the strip with the pads facing up – Do Not Shake Off Excess Water – to avoid bleeding of colors.
  7. Read the test strip results immediately by comparing the strip to the color chart on the bottle.
    8. Start with the Free Chlorine reading and read downward. (The pH reading will take several seconds to develop its accurate color).


Problems with Total Bromine or Free Chlorine Readings

Why is there no color on the testing pad?
If the testing strip is only dipped into the water and not swirled 3 times, all readings will read lower than actual levels.

If there is no free chlorine (0 ppm), the pad will remain the soft yellow color of an unused strip. A white pad indicates there is only a trace level (0.5 ppm) of free chlorine in the water. Once the free chlorine level reaches 1.0 ppm, the pad will have a light purple hue.

NOTE: If the test result is being compared to an OTO reagent test, keep in mind that these are measuring different chlorine factors. The 4-Way Test Strip measures "Free Chlorine" or the amount of chlorine still able to sanitize the water. The OTO test measures "Combined Chlorine" or the chlorine that is no longer able to sanitize the water. Often this used chlorine will be a much higher reading than the testing strip "Free Chlorine" reading.

Why does the color vary on the testing pad?
It is not unusual for part of the testing pad to be lighter in color than other parts of the pad. Always base your reading on the most common color. The actual level may be slightly less than the most common color.

Why is the testing pad dark purple and my DPD test colorless?
Any free chlorine level over 10 ppm will read dark purple on the 4-Way Testing Strip. High chlorine levels, on the other hand, can bleach some DPD tests. Do not use the pool or spa until sanitizer levels have returned to below 10 ppm.



Problems with Total Alkalinity Readings

Why is the testing pad a strange purple color?
If the testing strip is a dark purple color, the total alkalinity of the water is very high. A soft lavender color, on the other hand, may develop with mid to upper alkalinity levels if the testing is done indoors under sodium vapor gas bulbs. Such lighting actually changes the color hue. If this occurs, dip the strip and move to another room within 40 seconds to read the test results.

Why is the testing pad a pale yellow change?
If the testing pad is a pale yellow color, the sanitizer level of the water is very high. Storing strips in excessive heat or moisture can also cause a pale yellow pad.



Problems with pH Readings

Why did the color of the pad change?
Always read the pH level reading last when testing. The pH pad needs 10-20 seconds to fully react after being removed from the water.

Why is the pad bright yellow?
If a pH level is very low (below 6.6), a yellow color can develop. Such a low reading can cause severe corrosion if not treated promptly. To increase the pH level add a pH increaser. For spas we recommend you choose a pH balancer from Leisure Time GLB, or Robarb. And fro pools, we recommend increaser products from GLB and Robarb.

Why is the pad dark brown?
If the sanitizer level of the water (Total Bromine or Free Chlorine) is very high (above 10 ppm), a purple color can develop. If this occurs, retest the water after the sanitizer level has been reduced.

If you are using a spa, we recommend draining at least half of your spa water and refilling with fresh water to lower sanitizer levels (Be sure to add a sequestering agent when refilling the spa).

Why is the pad "washed out" or have very little color?
Swirling the testing strip in the water aggressively, tilting the strip vertically when removing from the water, or storing the strips in excessive heat or moisture can all cause the strips to appear colorless.




<% clientsideJavaScript_DHTML(); %> <% } %>