How To Test The Salt Level Of A Pool

Hey pool owners, it’s Rob with INYOPools. Today, we’re going to show you how to check the salt level with test strips. Now, some people might go just by the salt level on their salt system but that’s not always the most accurate method, especially if you’re trying to recalibrate it. 

We will be using this AquaChek Pool Salt Test Strips to assess our salinity level. These are a little different than your normal test strips where the other test strips you would just swipe it in the water and then compare the results. Let’s go through the steps, follow along with the video.

Step 1

Using the small specimen cup included in the kit collect sample pool water. The test requires there be about an inch of water in the cup. When taking the sample, go at least wrist deep.

Step 2

Sit the lower end of the test strip into the water sample, and let it soak for 3 to 4 minutes. The yellow band at the top of the strips will turn dark when the test is complete. As the strip soaks up the salt, the dark indicator strip will fade upwards.

Step 3

Remove the test strip from the sample, then find the highest point of the faded portion on indicator strip number scale, this is your result.

Step 4

Using the chart printed on the bottle, translate the test strip result value into a salinity reading.

This whole process shouldn’t take longer than 5-10 minutes. Our test strip’s line reached to about 6.2 mark. At 6.2, it’s saying I have 2,960 parts per million of salt. For my salt chlorine generator, the ideal salinity level is 3200 ppm. The desired salinity level varies according to the make and model of your system so make sure you refer to your owner’s manual.

So that is how you can test your pool water’s salt level. If you have any questions leave a comment down below or visit us over at www.INYOPools.com.