HydroTools by Swimline Four-in-One Pool Water Test Kit (Model 8440)

1. Introduction

The HydroTools by Swimline Four-in-One Pool Water Test Kit is designed to help you maintain optimal water chemistry in your swimming pool. This kit allows for accurate testing of four critical parameters: Free & Combined Chlorine, pH, Acid Demand, and Total Alkalinity. Regular testing is essential for a clean, safe, and balanced swimming environment.

To use, add a water sample to the test unit, apply the appropriate test solution, and compare the color result with the level indicators to determine the chemical levels in your swimming pool water.

Image 1.1: The HydroTools by Swimline Four-in-One Pool Water Test Kit, showing the test block, reagent bottles, and color comparison chart.

2. Safety Information

• Keep all test reagents out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not ingest any of the test reagents. If ingested, seek immediate medical attention.
• Avoid contact of reagents with skin and eyes. In case of contact, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Store the kit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Always follow the instructions carefully to ensure accurate results and safe handling.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present and undamaged before first use.

• Test Block with integrated color comparator
• Reagent #1: OTO (Orthotolidine) for Total Chlorine
• Reagent #2: Phenol Red for pH
• Reagent #3: Acid Demand Reagent
• Reagent #4: Total Alkalinity Reagent
• Instruction Manual

4. Setup

Before performing any tests, ensure your test kit is ready for use.

1. Unpack Components: Carefully remove all items from the packaging.
2. Inspect for Damage: Check the test block and reagent bottles for any signs of damage or leakage. Do not use if damaged.
3. Familiarize Yourself: Read through this instruction manual completely to understand the testing procedures for each parameter.
4. Prepare Test Area: Choose a well-lit area, preferably outdoors, to perform the tests.

5. Operating Instructions

Follow these steps for accurate water testing. Always rinse the test block thoroughly with pool water before and after each test.

5.1. Testing for Free & Combined Chlorine

1. Fill the small test tube on the left side of the test block (marked 'CL') to the indicated line with pool water.
2. Add 5 drops of Reagent #1 (OTO) to the water sample.
3. Cap the tube and invert several times to mix.
4. Wait 10 seconds. Compare the color of the water sample to the chlorine color standards on the test block.
5. The reading indicates the Total Chlorine level. To determine Free Chlorine, subtract the Combined Chlorine (if tested separately) from the Total Chlorine.

5.2. Testing for pH

1. Fill the large test tube on the right side of the test block (marked 'PH') to the indicated line with pool water.
2. Add 5 drops of Reagent #2 (Phenol Red) to the water sample.
3. Cap the tube and invert several times to mix.
4. Immediately compare the color of the water sample to the pH color standards on the test block.
5. The reading indicates the pH level.

5.3. Testing for Acid Demand

Perform this test only if your pH reading is above 7.8.

1. Use the same pH sample from the previous test.
2. Add Reagent #3 (Acid Demand Reagent) one drop at a time, capping and inverting after each drop, until the color matches the 7.4 or 7.6 pH standard.
3. Count the number of drops required. Each drop corresponds to a specific amount of acid needed to lower the pH. Refer to the kit's specific chart for dosage.

5.4. Testing for Total Alkalinity

This test uses the large test tube.

1. Fill the large test tube to the top line (usually 25ml or 50ml mark) with pool water.
2. Add 2 drops of Reagent #2 (Phenol Red).
3. Add Reagent #4 (Total Alkalinity Reagent) one drop at a time, capping and inverting after each drop, until the color changes from red/orange to yellow.
4. Count the number of drops required. Each drop represents 10 ppm (parts per million) of Total Alkalinity. For example, 10 drops = 100 ppm.

5.5. Interpreting Results

After performing each test, compare the color of your water sample to the corresponding color standards on the test block. The closest match indicates the level of that chemical in your pool water. Refer to standard pool chemistry guidelines for ideal ranges and make adjustments as necessary using appropriate pool chemicals.

6. Maintenance

• Clean Test Block: After each use, rinse the test block thoroughly with clean tap water and allow it to air dry.
• Store Reagents: Keep reagent bottles tightly capped and stored upright in the original kit case. Store in a cool, dark place to prolong their shelf life.
• Check Expiration Dates: Reagents have a limited shelf life. Check expiration dates periodically and replace expired reagents for accurate testing.
• Avoid Contamination: Do not interchange caps between reagent bottles. Avoid touching the dropper tips to prevent contamination.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1. Inaccurate or Unclear Results

• Expired Reagents: Ensure reagents are not expired. Replace if necessary.
• Contamination: Make sure the test tubes are clean and rinsed with pool water before each test. Avoid cross-contamination of reagents.
• Improper Sample Collection: Ensure water samples are taken from elbow-depth away from return jets.
• Lighting Conditions: Perform tests in good, natural light. Avoid direct sunlight or artificial light that can alter color perception.

7.2. Reagent Leakage

• Ensure all caps are securely tightened after use.
• Store the kit upright in a stable position.
• If a bottle is damaged, dispose of it safely and replace the reagent.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information or technical support regarding your HydroTools by Swimline Four-in-One Pool Water Test Kit, please contact Swimline customer service directly. Contact details can typically be found on the product packaging or the manufacturer's official website.