Hot Spring Freshwater Spa Test Strips - Hiraethore (73687)

• Easy to use
• Reasonably priced
• Authentic Watkins Wellness product
• Helps keep the water clean and sparkling
• Lasts for about six months when used weekly

• Hard to read pH level
• Bromine count always shows up a little bit purple
• Free chlorine is slightly purple and lower than the OK mark output chlorine
• Not reliable for pH readings

Overall, the Hot Spring Freshwater Portable Spa Test Strips are a good investment for Hot Springs hot tub owners as they are easy to use and help maintain clean and sparkling water. However, a separate pH meter may be necessary for accurate pH readings.

Q: What are the specifications of the Hot Spring Freshwater Portable Spa Test Strips?
A: The Hot Spring Freshwater Portable Spa Test Strips are manufactured by Hot Spring Spas under the brand name Hiraethore. The model number is 73687, and it falls under the category of Industrial & Scientific > Patio, Lawn & Garden > Pools, Hot Tubs & Supplies > Parts & Accessories > Hot Tub Accessories. The package dimensions are 5.12 x 2.95 x 1.5 inches, and it weighs 1.76 ounces. The item model number is 73687, and it belongs to the department of Hot Spring Products. It was first available on December 16, 2010, and it is not discontinued as of now.

Q: What is the expiration date of the Hot Spring Freshwater Portable Spa Test Strips?
A: All strips have an expiration date that varies but should be at least a year from now. You can find the expiration date located on the label at the very end.

Q: Can these test strips be stored outside in Florida’s 80-90 degree weather?
A: Yes, these test strips can be stored outside in hot temperatures as they seem to hold up fine even in southern Baja, Mexico.

Q: Which type of salt should be used with these test strips - sodium chloride bottle or granulated salt bag?
A: These test strips do not require any type of salt to function. However, if you need to add salt to your hot tub, you can use a plastic jar of salt that can be bought at a Hot Springs Spa dealer or online.

Q: How long should I read the strip after dipping it into the water?
A: After a two-second dunk, you should read the strip within the first 30-40 seconds. After that, the colors will start degrading, giving you a false reading.

Q: Are these test strips 5-way or 4-way?
A: These test strips are 5-way, as mentioned on the light blue horizontal bar on the bottle.

Q: What should I do if the readings for the other four parameters - total bromine ppm, alkalinity, total hardness ppm (hard water), and free chlorine - are out of range?
A: To adjust the levels of these parameters, you can use products such as pH increaser or decreaser as well as alkalinity increase or decrease. The amounts to be used for various readings and different tub capacities are mentioned on the products.

Q: Why does this container look different than any of the Hot Springs company's other test strips or products?
A: The container of these test strips looks like the one that came with a new spa and the ones bought on Amazon. It is an authentic product from Watkins Wellness, the manufacturer of Hot Springs Spas.

Q: Is there any difference between these test strips and Freshwater Hot Spring Spas Portable 5 Way Test Strips 80090?
A: Most strips read about the same, and you are paying for the brand name. For something you are going to dip and toss, expensive strips may not be worth it.