The First Pool Test Strip of the Season Is the Most Important One

Nothing says “pool season” like holding a soggy test strip up to your face, squinting at a color chart, and pretending you know what mauve means for your chlorine levels. But seriously, your first test of the season matters more than you think.

This is the reading that tells you where things stand after months of sitting. It’s your chemical report card. Ignore it, and you’re guessing your way into cloudy water and pH panic mode.

What you’re actually looking for

  • Chlorine or bromine. Is it there? Or is it a chemical ghost town?
  • pH and alkalinity. Too low and you’re corrosive. Too high and you’re crusty.
  • Cyanuric acid. Too much and your chlorine gives up. Too little and it evaporates for fun.

Take the time to fix it

Don’t toss in some random chemicals and hope for the best. Adjust one thing at a time. Retest after. You’re not guessing. You’re managing. It’s the difference between owning a pool and being owned by one.

The first test sets the tone for your whole season. Treat it like it matters. Because it does.