The short answer
Drop kits with FAS-DPD titration measure free chlorine by counting drops, which stays accurate at the high levels salt and stabilized pools need. Strips are fast for routine checks but read color steps. Test free chlorine and pH several times a week in season, and alkalinity, calcium and stabilizer (CYA) every few weeks.
Typical ranges
| Reading | Typical range |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.2-7.8 |
| Total alkalinity | 80-120 ppm |
| Calcium hardness (plaster) | 200-400 ppm |
| Cyanuric acid (stabilizer) | 30-50 ppm; higher in many salt pools |
| Salt (salt pools) | The salt system maker's range |
Kits we cover
Drop kits: Taylor K-2006 and, for salt, Taylor K-1766; strips and digital testers are listed in water testing.
Products mentioned
Questions readers ask
Are pool test strips accurate?
Accurate enough for routine checks; for chlorine at high levels and for balancing, a drop titration kit is more precise.
How often should I test pool water?
Free chlorine and pH several times a week in season; alkalinity, calcium and stabilizer every few weeks.