Water treatment involves the testing of a variety of samples from wells to aquariums. It measures the levels of pH, salt, conductivity, dissolved oxygen and ion, amongst others. This article focuses on the measurement of pH levels and the equipment and methods that this involves.

There are a variety of ways to test pH, which can be done using a vast amount of differing pieces of equipment, from good value classroom equipment to high specification laboratory devices. All of these pieces of equipment serve their purpose for each application while delivering results that are appropriate for each budget.

Aside from simple pH sampling methods such as using litmus papers, educational establishment and smaller businesses benefit from portable handheld devices. Handheld pH meters are available as portable devices and waterproof sensors. Each handheld meter measures a different pH value range, as well as other factors such as accuracy levels. The more expensive models have up to a five point calibration and automatic temperature compensation. Handheld pH meters are available with an AC adapter but can be made portable by being battery powered.

Waterproof handheld meters often match the specification of the standard portable pH meter and are therefore often more expensive. Waterproof portable pH testers are also available in the form of spears that are most suited to food or soil testing. You can also get waterproof pH testers with lower specs than the more popular brands. These have smaller LCD screens and fewer functions, but they are considerably cheaper. These cheaper brands often float in water and can be used in harsh conditions and are extremely convenient for doing field work

The alternative to handheld pH meters is laboratory bench meters. These devices are the top-of-the-range, research grade pieces of equipment that are most often used by professionals. Even with laboratory bench meters, some are available in lower cost options and others are more premium models. Bench meters are sophisticated, used for lab work and are mostly favoured by larger corporations. However, you compromise on the convenience and portability that handheld devices provide.

If you are a business that requires water testing and pH testing in particular, there is a range of equipment to fit all needs/budgets. For those who have: a smaller budget; work out in the field; or, need a lot of testers in use at one time, handheld devices would likely be the best choice. Laboratory work and important equipment can be purchased online.