Testing your cold tub water regularly helps you maintain the proper pH and sanitizer levels. Because cold water can affect the accuracy of test strips, use a liquid test kit to test your Chilly GOAT cold tub whenever possible. You can use the video above for reference.
Step 1: Prepare the Testing Kit
Before collecting a sample, make sure the test vials and caps are clean. Rinse each vial with cold tub water to remove any residue that could affect the results.
Review the labels on the testing solutions and identify the separate reagents used for the pH and chlorine tests.
Step 2: Collect a Water Sample
- Reach approximately 1 foot below the surface of the water.
- Collect the sample away from circulation jets, chemical dispensers and areas where chemicals were recently added.
- Fill the appropriate test vial to its designated fill line.
Do not collect water only from the surface, as it may not accurately represent the water throughout the tub.
Step 3: Test the pH
- Add four drops of the pH testing solution to the pH vial. If the instructions supplied with your specific test kit call for a different amount, follow those instructions.
- Place the cap securely on the vial.
- Gently swirl the sample to combine the water and testing solution. Do not shake it vigorously.
- Compare the color of the sample with the pH scale on the tester.
The recommended pH range for Chilly GOAT cold tub water is generally 7.2–7.6. Refer to the owner’s manual for your model before adjusting the water.
Step 4: Test the Chlorine
- Use the chlorine vial or collect a fresh sample in the appropriate chamber of the tester.
- Add four drops of the chlorine testing solution. Follow the instructions included with your test kit if they specify a different amount.
- Cap the vial and gently swirl the sample.
- Compare the resulting color with the chlorine scale on the tester.
Recommended chlorine levels can vary by cold tub model and owner’s-manual version. Compare the result with the range listed in the owner’s manual for your specific cold tub.
Step 5: Adjust and Retest the Water
If either reading is outside the recommended range, use the appropriate water-care product to make a small adjustment. Add chemicals in half-teaspoon increments unless the product label or owner’s manual directs otherwise.
Allow the water to circulate for at least 15 minutes after each adjustment, then collect a new sample and repeat the applicable test. Continue making gradual adjustments until the readings are within the recommended ranges.
For chemical-adjustment instructions, refer to How to Maintain Your Cold Tub Water .