A device employed to ascertain the chemical balance of saline-based swimming environments. These instruments typically measure parameters such as salinity, pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and sanitizer levels (e.g., free chlorine, combined chlorine). An example would be a colorimetric kit that uses reagent drops and a comparator block to visually assess chemical concentrations. Digital meters offering increased accuracy are also available.
Maintaining appropriate water chemistry in these aquatic facilities is critical for bather safety, equipment longevity, and overall aesthetic appeal. Imbalances can lead to skin and eye irritation, corrosion of pool components, and reduced sanitizer effectiveness. Historically, manual testing methods were the standard, evolving to more sophisticated electronic devices that provide rapid and precise readings.