PS234 -vs- Pentair (All-In-One)

[Pool_Mike]

I had a quick question (newbie) :cool: .

So our PBs finally brought our Pentair All-In-One test kit, which come's with Total and Combined Chlorine with 50 each DPD #1 and #3 rapid dissolve tablets, Cyanuric Acid with 10 tablet tests and liquid tests for pH, Acid Demand, Alkali Demand, and Total Alkalinity. Contains lucite test cell with wider color standards, test stick, 5 solutions, complete instructions, charts and informative Water Test booklet. CL range 0.3-3.0, pH range 6.8-8.2.

I finally learned how to use it. very simple. Now how does this kit compare to tge PS234 or the other recent versions?

WOuld the ps234 be overkill b/c it seems it has more drops then probably what I need. I know... newbie question, but that is why I ask :D

Thanks!!

[Pool_Mike]

It kinda looks like this one.

http://www.intheswim.com/Pool-Chemicals/Water-Test-Kits-and-Meters/4-Way-Water-Test-Kit-Liquid-Solution/

[Simmons99]

Well I am surprised by you getting a test kit for more than FC and PH.

You will run into problems with just this test kit in the following instances

You have an algae bloom or need to shock for any reason. Your test kit only shows up to 3ppm of chlorine. I keep my pool between 3ppm-5ppm of free chlorine. How will you be able to accurately test shock levels of 15ppm +?
You have a cloudy pool. You have no way of testing calcium levels. How do you know that your calcium is not high? Also most recommend a shock with a cloudy pool - again how do you test over 15ppm of FC?
Also it is a DPD chlorine test kit which will bleach out at high chlorine levels - making you think that there is 0 chlorine in the pool. So you add more... and more.... and oops now you have chlorine at over 25ppm and you start doing damage to the liner

As long as you are aware of the limitations of your test kit it will be okay. Just be aware that you will probably need to purchase one when you have your first *issue*. I went ahead and purchased it about 6 weeks before my pool was done to make sure I had it - it is very easy to use and has saved me about $200 in "unnecessary chemicals" that the pool store guys insisted I needed.

[dawndenise]

Hi Pool Mike,
Unfortunately, I just went over to Pool Solutions before I posted this and the PS234 is..."NOT available at this time." :( A side note says, "Sales halted until I can catch up!"

When available, I totally agree with Simmons99, that Ben's kit is the absolute best to get for exactly the situations outlined. I don't regret getting it for a minute.

Keep checking back with Pool Solutions to see when Ben will accept orders again and get right in line.:)