Correct pH - What's the Point?
This is a great question and one that isn’t always fully understood. The pH level in a pool or hot tub measures how acidic or alkaline the water, but why does it matter? We know you just want to relax in your tub with a cool drink and some soothing music, and the last thing you want to do is spend time testing water. Still, pH testing is essential for both safety and comfort.
It’s best to measure free chlorine and pH at the same time, as these are the most important tests for user safety. Chlorine is the disinfectant, but pH determines how effective that chlorine is and how comfortable the water feels.
High pH levels: Water that is too alkaline (pH above 7.4) reduces the effectiveness of chlorine, can become cloudy, and may allow bacteria to survive. It can also cause issues with plumbing and equipment.
Low pH levels: Water that is too acidic (pH below 7.0) can irritate eyes and skin, leaving bathers uncomfortable, and may damage hot tub and pool fittings.
The ideal pH range is 7.0–7.4, where water is comfortable for bathers and chlorine works at its best.
Graph: Chlorine efficiency drops as pH rises - demonstrating why regular pH testing and control is essential for safe, clear, and healthy water.
High pH levels: Water that is too alkaline (pH above 7.4) reduces the effectiveness of chlorine, can become cloudy, and may allow bacteria to survive. It can also cause issues with plumbing and equipment.
Low pH levels: Water that is too acidic (pH below 7.0) can irritate eyes and skin, leaving bathers uncomfortable, and may damage hot tub and pool fittings.
The ideal pH range is 7.0–7.4, where water is comfortable for bathers and chlorine works at its best.
Graph: Chlorine efficiency drops as pH rises - demonstrating why regular pH testing and control is essential for safe, clear, and healthy water.
Purchase a Pool Tester?
Scuba3s - Smart electronic pool tester for precise, effortless pool and spa control
The Scuba3s takes the guesswork out of pool care, combining fast, reliable testing of all essential water parameters with wireless NFC and the Lovibond PoolAssistant app. Get instant results, helpful insights, and practical water-care guidance. With intuitive operation, a compact waterproof design, and smart mobile management, the Scuba3s keeps your pool water under control—quickly, confidently, and effortlessly.
Pool Testers - Fast, Accurate, and Easy to Use
The tester combines rapid-dissolving RAPID tablets with simultaneous measurement of water treatment agents and pH, delivering highly accurate results you can trust. Its intuitive design makes operation simple and straightforward, with clear instructions to guide you whenever needed. The ergonomically optimized lid ensures a secure grip for comfortable handling every time.
Tablet Refill Packs for Accurate Water Testing
Lovibond tablet refill packs are formulated to deliver fast-dissolving, highly accurate measurements you can rely on. Designed specifically for use with Lovibond testers and the Scuba3s, the tablets ensure consistent colour development for precise water quality analysis. Easy to handle and clearly labelled, they support quick testing, dependable results, and confident pool and spa water management.
