Manual water test readers
There are several apps (i.e. application software) on the market that make it possible to use smartphones or other mobile devices to read manual test strip results. For example, the iPoolTester from SanSoft Inc., and Insta-LINK® from LaMotte, are both available for download from the Apple App store, while the latter is also available via Google Play and Amazon App store for Android users.
These apps read test strip (or test kit) results and help determine the necessary steps to balance pool water. They can also keep an archive of previous test results to help users manage pool maintenance week to week and season to season. It is also possible for pool owners to e-mail test results to a dealer or other service expert for troubleshooting purposes.
One example of this is the iPoolTester app, which reads a dipped test strip by taking a picture of it. It then reads the results by matching the colour and provides dosing suggestions. It also has a manual mode, which allows users to match test strip colours by using a slider on the phone. It is also possible to manually enter values corresponding to liquid test kit results.
In addition to scanning test strip results, the Insta-LINK app offers additional features to those who subscribe to Insta-LINK Home, which is accessible on any device (e.g. smartphone, tablet, or laptop/desktop computer) with Internet access. This app can be programmed to send reminder messages and alerts based on test result trends, while its ‘problem solver’ feature can also be used to help pool owners and/or service professionals identify and resolve common water-maintenance issues. It also includes an ‘equipment manager’ feature, which keeps a log of the pool’s equipment (e.g. pump/motor, filter, chlorine generator, alternative sanitizing system, and/or automatic pool cleaner, etc.), allowing the pool owner/service professional to keep track of maintenance records, while also alerting them when service is required.
Automatic monitoring systems
Those interested in taking an additional step along the continuum toward products that take care of themselves will find systems that combine sensors with today’s digital communication technology. For example, the next generation of GAME’s ePOOL water monitoring system applies an even greater level of technology to pool water testing. For instance, the system’s floating sensor continuously reads various water parameters (e.g. temperature) and chemistry levels (e.g. pH and sanitizer) and wirelessly relays the information to a computer running the ePOOL software interface. Upon logging into the program, it clearly displays either a green ‘OK’ icon or a red ‘NOT OK’ message to notify pool owners, at a glance, if their pool water requires attention. Should attention be required, the system will instruct users on what needs to be done to rectify any problems by calculating how much of a particular chemical is needed based on the pool’s volume and how far from ideal the reading is.
This device can also send notifications to the pool owner via e-mail or text message, allowing them to simply forward the warnings and/or instructions to whoever is looking after their pool, e.g. a neighbour while they are away or even to a service professional. It can also provide reminders when certain water parameters have not been tested within a recommended timeframe. For instance, it will display when total dissolved solids (TDS) were last checked, along with a reminder that they should be tested every 60 days. It is through these reminders the pool owner will be encouraged to go back to their local pool store.
Advanced technology
While most pool owners can use the mobile water maintenance systems mentioned above right out of the box, stepping farther up the technology ladder in terms of pool water care involves more sophisticated equipment and, almost always, professional installation. At the upper end of mobile pool water care are systems, which sense the pool water’s needs, relay the information wirelessly and, with the right combination of equipment, remotely and automatically increase saline output (for pools with salt chlorine generators), dose the right amount of acid to lower pH (with a compatible pH controller), and remotely manage other pool functions.
There are several manufacturers offering mobile pool maintenance systems in this category. For instance, the latest generation of Pentair Aquatics’ ScreenLogic™ interface, which works with the company’s IntelliTouch® and Easy Touch® automation controls, can be used by both pool owners or service professionals on their computers or iOS (Apple’s mobile operating system) devices to access pool/spa settings locally or remotely. Users can also set up e-mail alerts for up to 40 different system parameters, including low salt levels (for pools with salt chlorine generators), high/low pH or oxidation reduction potential (ORP) values (for pools with chemical feed systems), and other factors related to the operation of pumps, lights, water features, and various other accessories.
ScreenLogic also maintains an archive of this data, which can be reviewed and analyzed on a mobile device or computer; PC and iPad interfaces also include a five-day weather forecast, which can be useful for predicting high algae conditions or other environmental changes that can affect water chemistry.
