Test sets

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A clear and clean swimming pool is wonderful, but truly safe swimming water is just as important. With a reliable pool test kit, you can easily measure essential water parameters, such as pH, chlorine levels and alkalinity. Without regular testing, you quickly run the risk of cloudy water, persistent algae growth or irritated eyes. At Hermie, you’ll find a complete range for every type of swimming pool or spa. Whether you’re a new pool owner looking for quick and simple test strips, or an experienced user who demands the utmost precision, we have the right testing equipment to keep your water perfectly balanced.

Which swimming pool test kit is right for you? 

Choosing the right tester depends on your budget, how often you take measurements and how accurate you want the results to be. We’ve listed the three main types below. 

• Test strips (Quick and affordable): Ideal for a quick daily or weekly check. Simply dip the strip into the water and compare the coloured squares with the colour chart on the packaging. They are inexpensive and easy to use, but slightly less accurate than other methods. Perfect for above-ground pools and beginners.  
• Drop tests and tablet testers (Reliable and accurate): To use these, fill a small reservoir with pool water and add a reagent (a liquid or a tablet, such as DPD1 for chlorine and Phenol Red for pH). The water changes colour, after which you read the result. This method is very reliable and is a popular choice amongst owners of in-ground swimming pools.  
• Digital testers (Maximum precision): No more hassle trying to gauge colour nuances. A digital water tester analyses the water (often in combination with test tablets) and displays the exact values on an LCD screen. This is the best choice for anyone who doesn’t want to take any risks with the water balance or who finds it difficult to interpret colours.

FAQ

• How often should I test my swimming pool water?
  During the peak season or when the pool is in heavy use, we recommend testing the water two to three times a week. During a heatwave or after a heavy thunderstorm, it is advisable to test the water daily, as the water balance can change very quickly in such circumstances.
• What is the difference between test strips and a drop test?
  Test strips are quicker and easier to use, but provide a rough guide rather than an exact measurement. A drop or tablet test takes an extra minute, but the chemical reaction gives a much more accurate and easier-to-read result.
• Can I use the same test kit for my spa?
  Yes, the water parameters (pH and chlorine) are measured in the same way. Please note, however, that hot tubs are more susceptible to fluctuations due to the higher water temperature. Some hot tub owners use bromine instead of chlorine; in that case, make sure your test kit can also measure bromine.
• Why is the pH level of my swimming pool so important?
  The pH level determines the effectiveness of all your other chemicals. If the pH is too high, chlorine stops disinfecting (leading to limescale build-up and cloudy water). If the pH is too low, the water becomes acidic, which can cause irritation to the eyes and skin and damage to pool components.
• My test strip doesn’t show any colour at all when I test for chlorine – what should I do?
  This could mean two things: either there really is no active chlorine in the water, or the chlorine level is so extremely high that it has bleached the test strip. If necessary, test the water after diluting it slightly with tap water to rule out the possibility of an excess.