Free Chlorine Test Strips

[Razorhog]

I'd like to be able to quickly test FC levels. It doesn't take too long with the K-2006 kit, but during a party a strip would be better (if it is reliable). Any particular brand that tends to be better?

[Hillbilly Hot Tub]

for strips i like the Aqua Check, or taylor brand ones.

[quantumchromodynamics]

I recommend against test strips. If you want a faster chlorine test, then get reagents R-0001 and R-0002 to test for FC. You will also need part 9056.

Part 9056

Chlorine (Free, Combined, Total) Test

1. Rinse and fill small comparator tube to 9 mL mark with water to be tested.

2. Add 5 drops R-0001 and 5 drops R-0002. Cap and invert to mix.

3. Match color with color standard.* Record as parts per million (ppm) free chlorine (FC).

4. Add 5 drops R-0003. Cap and invert to mix.

5. Match color immediately. Record as ppm total chlorine (TC).

6. Subtract FC from TC. Record as ppm combined chlorine (CC).

Formula: TC - FC = CC.

This is only good for a quick test and bleaches out at high levels. It should not be used as your primary test.

[chem geek]

A comparison of test strips vs. drop-based tests is in this post. Most of the problems with test strips have been with the CYA test where they are awful and not having a CH test since they only test Total Hardness. Some have found the TA test off and fewer have found the pH and chlorine tests to be off. So while not great, the chlorine and pH tests have the best chance of at least not being totally ridiculous.

If you do end up with some test strips, I suggest you "calibrate" them against your test kit to make sure you didn't get a really bad batch and to get a very rough idea of how much they might be in error. Keep them dry and do not use them for your primary testing -- always use your good drop-based test kit for a reality check.

[Razorhog]

Not sure if I'll get strips or not... Thanks Richard, for that link.