3 Way Test Kit For Pools And Spas By uaezarb on Jul 23, 2008 - Updated Oct 15, 2011

I bought this Aqua Chem 3-way test kit for our pool this year. In years past we had always used the test strips, but I have heard they are not as accurate as the liquid test kits, so I decided to switch. The kit tests for Free Chlorine, Combined Chlorine, PH and Bromine. The testing vials and two testing solutions come in a handy plastic snap close box, with easy to read instructions.

To test the water all I have to do is fill the two test tubes with pool water from 18" below the surface, place 5 drops of the yellow testing solution for the chlorine and bromine test and 5 drops of red solution in the other tube for the ph test. The bottles hold ½ oz. each and should last a full season. After placing the tops on the test tubes, I just tilt the tubes upside down a couple of times to mix the solution evenly with the water sample. Adjacent to the tubes are color markings to make it easy to match the color of the treated water and determine the numerical reading.

I really prefer this type of testing over the strips and feel like I am getting an accurate reading. The kit recommends replacing the solutions once a year, however, the expiration date on the bottles is 2013. So I assume after you open the bottle, the chemicals deteriorate over time.