TECHNICAL FIELD

A system for improving the water quality of a body of water is disclosed. The system may be implemented in the testing and subsequent improvement of the water quality of a swimming pool, using a water treating agent, however, the disclosure is to be broadly interpreted, in that the system may also be used for improving the water quality of a pond, aquarium, spa, hot tub, or other body of water.

BACKGROUND ART

The treatment of water in backyard pools, hot tubs, spas, aquariums and the like, is required to ensure that various qualities and parameters, such as chemical, physical and/or biological characteristics, are within given acceptable ranges. When a given chemical, physical and/or biological characteristic falls outside these acceptable ranges, it is necessary for the water to be treated to prevent someone or something becoming unwell from exposure, or from becoming imbalanced, etc. The water can be treated in a number of ways, including chemical dosing, irradiation, filtration, etc.

To determine whether various chemical, physical and/or biological characteristics are within the acceptable ranges, it is necessary to perform tests on the body of water. The type of test required generally depends on the characteristic being tested. Testing, interpretation and correlation of the results can be quite complicated, and it is often necessary to have a professional analyse the results to determine the best procedure for treatment of the water to improve its quality.

One manner of testing water quality utilises so-called test strips. A test strip is placed in the water and removed after a pre-determined time. One or more sections of the test strip may be adapted to react to different characteristics of the water. For example, one part of the test strip may test for pH and another part for total hardness. The part of the test strip will then change colour, depending on e.g. the pH of the water. The colour on the test strip is then compared with a colour on a reference chart to determine, for example, the current pH of the water. It is then necessary to determine what the 'ideal' pH should be, and the type of corrective action necessary to alter the pH of the water. US 6,413,473 discloses a reference table which can be used to determine a certain mass of a chemical to be added to a pool to alter the water chemistry thereof. After testing the current chemical conditions of the pool, the test strip is compared and correlated with the reference table and the required mass of a corrective chemical is referred to on the reference table. It is then necessary to weigh the chemical to ensure the water is being treated with the correct dosage.

US 4,904,605 discloses a kit for testing for various contaminants in water. After the water is tested, the test strip is compared with a colour reference chart to determine the concentration of the contaminant in the water. The user is required to note the concentration of each contaminant and refer to another table to establish what corrective action should be taken.

US 2007/0187336 discloses an electronic reservoir management system which may be used for controlling water impurity levels within water reservoirs. A sample line removes a test stream of water from the reservoir, which is analysed to determine the level of a chemical in the water. An electronic controller compares the level of the chemical to a set point and maintains, increases or decreases the amount of chemical added to the water accordingly, via a chemical dosing line.

The above references to the background art do not constitute an admission that the art forms a part of the common general knowledge of a person of ordinary skill in the art. The above references are also not intended to limit the application of the system as disclosed herein.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

According to a first aspect, there is disclosed a system for improving the water quality of a body of water, in which a parameter indicative of the water quality can be measured. The system comprises a comparator, against which the measured parameter is compared. The comparator is adapted to indicate a quantitative dosage of a water treating agent. The system further comprises a dosage format that enables dispensing of the indicated quantitative dosage of the water treating agent.

The system can provide a simplified approach to the measurement and dispensation of a water treating agent. The dosage format allows the water treating agent to be accurately dispensed without the need to weigh or otherwise measure the amount of water treating agent to be dispensed to improve the water quality of the body of water. The dosage format can also provide a simple and relatively economical alternative to a complicated; expensive electronic measurement and dispensation system, allowing the system disclosed herein to be utilised for home-use, for example.

Once the parameter has been measured, a result indicative of the water quality parameter being measured is obtained. The result may be in a number of formats, such as colourimetric, numerical value, digital output, etc. The comparator may provide an array or range of potential results against which the result of the measured parameter can be compared. The comparative result on the comparator that is closest to the measured result, be it a colour, number, etc, is adapted to indicate the quantitative dosage of water treating agent required to improve the water quality. While it is not necessary to do so, the comparative result on the comparator may also be adapted to indicate the measured result. For example, where a colourimetric result is obtained using a test strip, the colourimetric comparative results on the comparator may also be adapted to indicate the, for example, concentration, or the presence or absence, of the measured parameter.

It should be noted that the water quality of the body of water may only be improved in respect of the parameter(s) measured, and when the dosage format of the indicated quantitative dosage of water treating agent is dispensed into the water. Other parameters or characteristics of water quality may not have been improved, thus the overall quality of the water may still be poor.

The parameter indicative of water quality may incl ude, but is not limited to: acidity; alkalinity; total alkalinity; biguanide; bromine; free bromine; chloride; chlorine; free chlorine; free and combined chlorine; conductivity; copper; cyanuric acid; hardness; calcium hardness; total hardness; hydrogen peroxide; iron; manganese; mineral/salt; monopersulfate; NaCI (salt); nitrate; oxidation reduction potential (ORP); ozone; pH; phosphate; quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC); etc.

The water treating agent may include, but is not l imited to: sodium bicarbonate; sodium carbonate; sodium bisulphate; sodium hypochlorite; chlorine; hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid complex; calcium chloride; hydrochloric acid; trichloroisocyanuric acid; sodium tetraborate pentahydrate; cyanuric acid; copper sulphate pentahydrate; boric acid; sodium dichloroisocyanurate dihydrate; calcium hypochlorite; potassium peroxymonopersulphate; aluminium sulphate; natural clarifier; cationic polyectrolyte; aluminium chlorhydrate; aluminium oxide; poly[oxyethylene(dimethyliminio)ethylene- (dimethyliminio)ethylene dichloride]; cupric ammonium complex; benzalkonium chloride; copper - triethanolamine complex (as copper); quaternary ammonium chloride; isocyanuric acid; sodium metabisulphite; l-hydroxyethylidene-l,l-diphophonic acid; citric acid monohydrate; oxalic acid; magnesium sulphate heptahydrate; aluminosilicate; etc.

In the context of this specification, the terminology "dosage format" refers to a fixed amount of a repeating unit. In one embodiment, the dosage format may be a scoop, sachet, bag, pellet, tablet, bottle, container or bucket. The dosage format allows for a discrete amount of the water treating agent to be introduced to the water in a simple manner, without the need for further weighing or measurement of the water treating agent. For example, the quantitative dosage indicated on the comparator may refer to a dosage format in the form of a scoop, which may be supplied together with the water treating agent. In this manner, where the comparator indicates that three scoops should be dosed into the water, the user simply needs to use the scoop three times to dispense the water treating agent. If the usual dosage required to treat a certain parameter is quite large, the dosage format may be a bag or container of the water treating agent. For example, it may be necessary to dose the water with two bags or containers of the water treating agent.

In one embodiment, a plurality of parameters indicative of water quality may be measured. This may allow a single test to be performed, whilst obtaining results for a number of indicators of the water quality. Alternatively, each parameter may be measured individually but at the same time as a plurality of other parameters.

In one embodiment, the measurements of the plurality of parameters may be compared with a single comparator that is adapted to indicate the quantitative dosage of each water treating agent required to treat each parameter measured and improve the quality of the water. In this regard, the single comparator may have comparative results for a number of parameters arranged thereon (e.g. horizontally, vertically, an array, etc). Each parameter measured can then be compared with the corresponding comparative results, which in turn indicates the quantitative dosage of the water treating agent required to improve that particular parameter indicative of the water quality.

In one embodiment, the comparator may be located on a vessel. The vessel may contain the water treating agent. Alternatively, the vessel may be a container for holding a device, component, component of a device, etc, that measures the parameter indicative of water quality, or it may be another form of vessel. For example, the comparator may form part of a label for the vessel (e.g. an adhesive label affixed to the vessel).

In one embodiment, the comparator may be located on a plurality of vessels. This may be convenient where a number of parameters indicative of water quality are being measured. In one embodiment, each vessel may contain a different respective water treating agent required to improve the quality of the water. In this regard, a comparator directed to a specific water quality parameter, and its corresponding water treating agent, may be used for each water treating agent vessel. Alternatively, the comparator may show the dosage of water treating agents for a plurality of parameters, and reproductions of the same comparator may be located on the vessel of each water treating agent.

In one embodiment, the or each parameter may be measured by a test strip. In this regard, the parameter being measured may show a colourimetric response to the test strip. The colour obtained on the test strip can then be compared to the comparator, which shows representative results (e.g. colours) of the parameter being measured. The colour on the comparator which most closely represents the colour shown on the test strip indicates the quantitative dosage, to be dispensed by the dosage format, required to improve the parameter of the water quality being measured. Alternatively, a small sample of the water may be collected from the body of water and a colourimetric indicator may be added thereto. The indicator causes the water sample to change colour, dependent on the result of the parameter being measured. The coloured water sample may then be compared with the comparator.

In one embodiment, a single test strip can measure a plurality of parameters. This simplifies and reduces the effort required to maintain the body of water at an acceptable water quality, as a single test can provide insight into a number of parameters that may need rectification.

In one embodiment, the comparator (e.g. label) may be located on a vessel which contains unused test strips. This enables an unused test strip to be removed from the vessel and used to test the parameter and then be compared to the comparator on the vessel. This streamlines comparison, as the test strip vessel is already at hand.

In one embodiment, the test strip may be positionable at or in a test strip holder located on a visible portion of a vessel. Where the comparator is located on a vessel, this allows the test strip to be placed in the vicinity of the comparator to simplify comparison of the measured parameter with the comparator. In one embodiment, once the test strip is positioned at the test strip holder, the system can be adapted to indicate the quantitative dosage.

In one embodiment, the test strip holder may be movable. A movable test strip holder may be useful where multiple parameters are being measured, allowing the test strip to be moved adjacent to the corresponding comparator.

In one embodiment, the test strip holder can be separated from where the quantitative dosage is indicated. Separating the test strip holder from where the quantitative dosage is indicated encourages a user to wait until the measured parameter has completed measurement, thus preventing comparison of the measured parameter before completion, e.g. before a reaction between the testing region on the test strip and the water being measured has been sufficiently completed, and ensuring the correct quantitative dosage is indicated.

In one embodiment, a timing device may be provided in the system. The timing device may display an optimal time for comparing the measured parameter with the comparator. This assists with ensuring that the measured parameter is not compared with the comparator before sufficient time has been allowed for the result to generate, thus preventing the incorrect dosage being dispensed. Further, it also prevents the measured parameter being compared with the comparator significantly after the optimal time which may also affect the measured parameter result obtained, again preventing the incorrect dosage being dispensed.

In one embodiment, the comparator may comprise a moveable sleeve at a visible portion of a vessel that, when moved to a given location on the vessel, reveals the indicated dosage when compared with the measured parameter. The sleeve may have an opening or window therein to allow an indicated dosage to be viewed once the sleeve has been moved. In this regard, the various potential dosages may be obscured from view until the sleeve is moved, according to the measured parameter. When the sleeve is moved, only the indicated dosage is revealed. This avoids confusion of the indicated dosage and ensures that the correct dosage is dispensed into the body of water to improve the quality thereof. It also allows the water treating agent to be dispensed somewhat after the test has been performed and the quantitative indicated dosage determined, without the need to remember the dosage. The sleeve essentially provides a snapshot of the result and thus the indicated dosage.

In one embodiment, one or more of a number of parameters that can be measured may comprise a separately movable sleeve. This is suitable for use, for example, with a test strip having multiple testing regions, or with a pl urality of test strips which test one or more parameters. As the indicated dosage for each parameter may be independent of the indicated dosage for another parameter, it is preferred that each parameter has its own movable sleeve. This allows a user to compare the, for example, test strip results for each parameter with the comparator in an efficient manner, so that the test strip does not overreact and provide an incorrect result. In this regard, the sleeves record or freeze the result, and the quantitative indicated dosage in the window, enabling the dosage for all parameters to be determined before water treating agents are dosed into the body of water.

In one embodiment, to account for different factors which affect the quantitative dosage required to improve the water quality of the body of water, the comparator may have an array of possible dosage formats (e.g. arranged on a label in a number of rows and columns). The one or more factors may include the volume of the body of water, the water temperature, the frequency of use of the body of water, the number of users, or other seasonal factors.

In one embodiment, the system may further comprise a moveable sleeve on a vessel that adjusts the indicated quantitative dosage for various volumes of the body of water. This may be necessary, as the dosage required to improve water quality for one volume of water will be different for a different volume of water. For example, if an indicated dosage of a water treating agent for a 20,000L body of water is dispensed into a 5,000L body of water, it is likely that the water quality will not improve to within acceptable ranges. It is likely that the Overdose' of the water treating agent will result in decreased water quality as the parameter will have been overcompensated. For example, if the pH of the 5,000L body of body of water is too low, and sodium bicarbonate is dispensed into the water, the pH of the water will likely end up too high if the dosage for a 20,000L body of water is dispensed.

Alternatively, or additionally, the system may further comprise a movable sleeve on a vessel that adjusts the indicated dosage for various water temperatures, the frequency of use of the body of water, the number of users, or other seasonal factors (such as summer and winter). Each factor may comprise its own movable sleeve.

In one embodiment, the movable volume sleeve may be lockable against movement. This can allow a volume to be set (or water temperature, season, number of users, etc), which may be the vol ume of a pool, spa or aquarium, etc, as the approximate volume will not change. This can also prevent under- or over- dosage due to comparison of the measured parameter with the indicated dosage of an incorrect volume of water.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the system as set forth in the Summary, specific embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 shows an exemplary comparator in the form of an adhesive label;

Figure 2 shows a second exemplary comparator in the form of a second adhesive label;

Figure 3 shows an exemplary system in the form of a bottle containing a water treating agent and a comparator label located thereon;

Figures 4A - 4K show various dosage formats;

Figures 5A and 5B show third and fourth exemplary comparators in the form of adhesive labels; and

Figure 6 shows an exemplary comparator having a movable sleeve.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

Referring firstly to Figure 1, a first embodiment of a comparator for use in a system for improving the water quality of a body of water is shown, in the form of label part 10, which forms part of an adhesive label 12 suitable for adhesion to a vessel for containing a water treating agent. In this embodiment, the label 12 is for use on a liquid chlorine bottle. An exemplary test strip 14 is shown on the comparator 10. Exemplary test strip 14 is shown having four separate testing regions 16, 18, 20, 22. The four testing regions allow four different parameters indicative of water quality to be tested at the same time on a single test strip. In this embodiment the comparator 10 provides an array of potential results 24 for the test performed in the third region, region 20, the 'free chlorine' test. The testing region 20 is correlated with the array of results 24 by written indication on the testing region 20 of the test being performed and the region surrounding testing region 20 being highlighted. Once a test strip has been placed in the water being tested, a predetermined length of time is allowed to pass before the third testing region of the test strip is colourimetrically compared with the array of potential results 24 on the comparator 10. The potential results 24, in addition to the colourimetric comparative result, also show the equivalent quantitative result. In this embodiment, the free chlorine level (ppm) is provided for each potential result shown in array 24. Whilst this is not necessary, some user's may prefer to have this knowledge rather than just be provided with the remedying action.

For each result in the array of results 24, the comparator 10 indicates a quantitative dosage 26 of water treating agent, in this embodiment liquid chlorine, that is required to be dosed into the water to improve the quality thereof. The comparator 10 shown in Figure 1 also provides the quantitative dosage required according to the volume of water to be treated (array 28). Specifically, Figure 1 shows various quantitative dosages required for water volumes of 20,000L, 40,000L, 60,000L and 80,000L. Further, the quantitative dosage is provided in a dosage format that is correlated to the water treating agent. In Figure 1, the dosage format is "caps", so where one cap is required to be dosed into the water, a user need only use the bottle cap for simple and discrete dispensation of the liquid chlorine.

A second exemplary comparator 40, in the form of a part of a label 42 suitable for adhesion to a vessel for containing a water treating agent, is shown in Figure 2. Comparator 40 and label 42 are similar to that shown in Figure 1, except that the parameter indicative of water quality being tested is different, the water treating agent is different, and the dosage format is different. In this comparator, the second testing region 18 of test strip 14 is correlated to the comparator 40. Once the water has been tested, the colourimetric result of this second region of the test strip is then compared with the colourimetric array of potential results 24 shown on the comparator 40. For each colourimetric potential result 24, quantitative dosages of a water treating agent that are dependent on the volume of the body of water being tested are provided. In this embodiment, the water treating agent is sodium bicarbonate and the dosage format of the quantitative dosage is 'bottle' (i.e. where Ί bottle' is required to improve the water quality, one entire bottle of sodium bicarbonate is dosed into the water). In this embodiment, there is no quantitative value provided for each colourimetric potential result 24 (i.e. the pH value which corresponds to each colourimetric potential result 24 is not shown).

Referring now to Figure 3, the adhesive label 12 of Figure 1 is shown in use, on a liquid chlorine bottle 50. The label 12, including the comparator 10 part of the label, is used to compare the results of a free chlorine test, to determine how much liquid chlorine should be dosed into the water to improve the free chlorine levels thereof. In this embodiment, the cap 52 of the bottle 50 is the dosage format used to indicate the quantitative dosage of liquid chlorine to be dosed into the water. While the label 12 is shown on a liquid chlorine bottle 12, it may also be provided on a bag, container, bucket, sachet or other vessel containing another type of water treating agent, with the dosage format amended accordingly. Alternatively, the label may be located on a bottle for holding unused test strips, or another type of vessel altogether.

Figures 4A - 4K show a variety of possible dosage formats that can be used to accurately and discretely dispense a specified quantitative dosage of a water treating agent. Pellets 62 and 64, such as those shown in Figures 4A and 4D may come in shape configurations other than the cylindrical and spherical ones shown, so long as the dosage in each pellet is substantially consistent. Similarly, a dosage tablet 66 may come in any configuration, and is not limited to the form shown in Figure 4B. Sachets 68 of various sizes, shapes and volumes, other than those shown in Figure 4C, may also be used. The cap or lid 70 of a bottle, container or other vessel, generally denoted 72 in Figure 4E, can also be used as a dosage format for discretely dispensing a water treating agent. The size, shape and volume of the cap or lid 70 will depend on the size of the vessel 72, as well as the expected quantitative dosage of water treating agent. For example, where only a small amount of water treating agent is usually introduced into the water, the cap or lid 70 may be smaller than if a relatively large quantity of water treating agent is required for dosage.

A measuring type cylinder or flask may alternatively be used, with formats marked thereon.

While a bag 74, bucket 76 or sack 78 may be dosage formats in their own right, they may additionally be provided with a scoop 80. The scoop 80 can be used as a quantitative measure to scoop out e.g. granulated or powdered water treating agent of a bag, bucket or sack. The water treating agent may also be poured into the scoop 80 from a bottle 82, etc. Lid 84 of bottle 82 may alternatively be the dosage format indicated on the comparator. Another type of bottle 86 is also shown, having a lid 88.

Referring now to Figure 5A, a single comparator 90A is shown having four different comparator regions 92, 94, 96 and 98. Each comparator region provides comparative results and quantitative dosages for the four different parameters tested on a test strip (not shown). The regions are shown arranged in a 2x2 array, with regions 92 and 94 shown located above regions 96 and 98.

Figure 5B shows a comparator 90B, similar to that shown in Figure 5A except that the four regions are arranged side-by-side. Comparators 90A and 90B may be in the form of adhesive labels that can be stuck onto test strip holder containers for unused test strips, or may be located on the vessels of the relevant water treating agents referred to on the labels (i.e. sodium bicarbonate, as referred to by comparator region 92; pH down powder, as referred to by comparator region 94; chlorine, as referred to by comparator region 96; or sodium hypochlorite, as referred to by comparator region 96).

Figure 6 shows a test strip holder bottle 100. The bottle 100 is adapted to indicate a quantitative dosage of a water treating agent. The bottle 100 has a movable sleeve 102 that alters the indicated quantitative dosage due to the volume of the water being tested. This ensures that the correct dosage for the vol ume of water being tested is provided. Windows 104, 106, 108can be used to position a test strip behind movable collars 110, 112 and 114. This allows the indicator regions of the test strip to be positioned in, and viewable through, windows 104, 106, 108 and to be positioned adjacent to the potential results shown on the collars, to simplify comparison. Collars 110, 112, 114 can each be independently rotated to colourimetrically match the result obtained on the test strip with the potential results. The indicated quantitative dosage is altered as the collars are rotated or moved. The indicated quantitative dosage for each water treating agent can be displayed, for example, in a corresponding window on the other side of the comparator.

While in the attached Figures test strips having three or four testing regions are depicted, and as would be appreciated by a person of ordinary skill in the art, test strips having greater or fewer than four testing regions may also be used. For example, a test strip capable of testing only one parameter may be used. Similarly, a means other than a test strip may be used for testing the parameters (e.g. specimen bottles with liquid reagents dropped thereinto via a dropper).

Non-limiting Examples of the system, in-use, will now be described to illustrate how the system may be applied, for example, to improving the water quality of a domestic swimming pool. It should, however, be appreciated that the system can be used to improve the water quality of other bodies of water such as spas, ponds, aquariums, hot tubs, etc. While in the following examples test strips are used to measure various parameters indicative of water quality, other devices may also be used, such as electronic devices (hand-held or otherwise), sampling and specimen bottles, chemical test kits, etc.

In a general sense, the test strip(s) was placed in the water to be tested. The test strip was either directly dipped into the water in the swimming pool, or a small sample of the pool water was collected for testing and the test strip was dipped therein. The test strip was then removed from the water, and a predetermined length of time was allowed to pass before comparison of the test strip with the comparator.

Example 1

A single test strip for testing pH was removed from a test strip holder bottle. A comparator, in the form of an adhesive label, indicating a quantitative dosage in an appropriate dosage format, was located on the outside of the test strip holder bottle. The test strip was dipped into the water for 10 seconds. Once the test strip was removed from the water, the resultant colouring of the test strip was compared to various colour standards, which corresponded to various pH values. Each colour on the comparator indicated a quantitative dosage, where appropriate corrective action was required to improve the quality of the water. The comparator also provided for pools of various volumes, by providing an alternative indicated dosage for different volumes of water. In this example, a pool of 40,000L was being sampled.

Once the test strip had been compared to the comparator and matched to the closest colour result shown thereon, the quantitative indicated dosage which corresponded to the 40,000L pool was determined. In this example, the quantitative indicated dosage was four sachets of sodium bicarbonate.

The water treating agent, in this example sodium bicarbonate, was obtained in sachet form. Thus, four sachets of sodium bicarbonate were added to the pool water, and were observed to improve the quality thereof.

Example 2

A single test strip capable of testing four parameters, such as chlorine, alkalinity, pH and total hardness, was removed from a test strip holder bottle. A comparator, in the form of an adhesive label, indicating a quantitative dosage in an appropriate dosage format, was located on the outside of the test strip holder bottle. The test strip was dipped into the water for 15 seconds. Once the test strip was removed from the water, the resultant colourings of each section of the test strip were compared to their respective colour standards, which corresponded to chlorine, alkalinity, pH and total hardness values. The comparator label was arranged such that colour standards for each of the parameters tested were located in a separate quadrant on the label. Each colour on the comparator indicated a quantitative dosage of a water treating agent suitable for treating, where corrective action was required to improve the quality of the water. The comparator also provided for pools of various volumes, by providing an alternative indicated dosage for different volumes of water. In this example, a pool of 20,000L was being sampled.

Each portion of the test strip was compared to the corresponding quadrant on the comparator and matched to the closest colour result shown thereon. In this example, the total hardness result was within an acceptable range, so no corrective action was required (i.e. no quantitative dosage was indicated, as no dosing was required). However, as indicated by the comparator, one sachet of sodium carbonate was required to adjust the pH, one scoop of sodium bicarbonate was required to adjust the alkalinity and two 1kg bottles of liquid chlorine were required to adjust the chlorine levels.

Each of the sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate and chlorine were provided in the appropriate dosage format, i.e. sachet, in a container with a specific sized scoop and bottles, respectively, enabling the respective water treating agents to be accurately and easily dispensed to improve the swimming pool water quality.

Example 3

A single test strip for testing pH was removed from a test strip holder located on the side of a sodium bisulphate bottle. A comparator, in the form of an adhesive label, indicating a quantitative dosage in the form of 'cap-fulls', was also located on the outside of the sodium bisulphate bottle. The test strip was dipped into the water and removed. Once the test strip was removed from the water, the test strip was held for 30 seconds, waiting for the colourimetric reaction (if any) to take place. The resultant colouring of the test strip was compared to various colour standards on the comparator, which corresponded to various pH values. Each colour on the comparator indicated a quantitative dosage, where appropriate corrective action was required to improve the quality of the water. The comparator also provided for pools of various volu mes, by providing an alternative indicated dosage for different volumes of water. In this example, a pool of 30,000L was being sampled.

Once the test strip had been compared to the comparator and matched to the closest colour result shown thereon, the quantitative indicated dosage which corresponded to the 30,000L pool was determined. In this example, the quantitative indicated dosage was 2 caps of granulated/powdered sodium bisul phate, used to lower the pH. The sodium bisulphate was poured into the cap to the 'fill line', dispensed, and repeated for the second 'cap full', to improve the pH level, by lowering it, in the pool.

Example 4

A single test strip capable of testing four parameters, such as pH, alkalinity, free chlorine and cyanuric acid, was removed from a test strip holder bottle. Copies of the same, single, comparator, in the form of an adhesive label, providing the quantitative dosages required to adjust each of the parameters was located on the respective water treating agents. The test strip was dipped into the water for 5 seconds and then removed. Once the test strip was removed from the water, it was held for 20 seconds to allow the colourimetric response to take place. The resultant colourings of each section of the test strip were compared to their respective colour standards, which corresponded to pH, alkalinity, free chlorine and cyanuric acid values. The comparator label was arranged such that colour standards for each of the parameters tested were located in a separate quadrant on the label. Each colour on the comparator indicated a quantitative dosage of a water treating agent suitable for treating, where corrective action was required to improve the quality of the water. The comparator also provided for pools of various volumes, by providing an alternative indicated dosage for different volumes of water. In this example, a pool of 20,000L was being sampled.

Each portion of the test strip was compared to the corresponding quadrant on the comparator and matched to the closest colour result shown thereon. In this example, the pH result was within an acceptable range, so no corrective action was required (i.e. no quantitative dosage was indicated, as no dosing was required). However, as indicated by the comparator, one bucket of sodium bicarbonate was required to adjust the alkalinity, five scoops of liquid chlorine was required to adjust the chlorine levels and 10 pellets of sodium hypochlorite were required to adjust the cyanuric acid levels.

Each of the sodium bicarbonate, chlorine and sodiu m hypochlorite were provided in the appropriate dosage format, i.e. bucket, in a container with a specific sized scoop and pellets, respectively, enabling the respective water treating agents to be accurately and easily dispensed to improve the swimming pool water quality.

Example 5

A single test strip capable of testing four parameters, such as pH, alkalinity, free chlorine and cyanuric acid, was removed from a test strip holder bottle. A comparator, in the form of a laminated card, providing the quantitative dosages required to adjust each of the parameters was provided with the test strip holder bottle and/or water treating agents when purchased. The test strip was dipped into the water for 20 seconds. Once the test strip was removed from the water, the resultant colourings of each section of the test strip were compared to their respective colour standards, which corresponded to pH, alkalinity, free chlorine and cyanuric acid values. The comparator label was arranged such that colour standards for each of the parameters tested were located side-by-side on the label. Each colour on the comparator indicated a quantitative dosage of a water treating agent suitable for treating, where corrective action was required to improve the quality of the water. The comparator also provided for pools of various volumes, by providing an alternative indicated dosage for different volumes of water. In this example, a pool of 20,000L was being sampled.

Each portion of the test strip was compared to the corresponding portion on the comparator and matched to the closest colour result shown thereon. In this example, the pH result was within an acceptable range, so no corrective action was required (i.e. no quantitative dosage was indicated, as no dosing was required). However, as indicated by the comparator, one bucket of sodium bicarbonate was required to adjust the alkalinity, five scoops of liquid chlorine was required to adjust the chlorine levels and 10 pellets of sodium hypochlorite were required to adjust the cyanuric acid levels.

Each of the sodium bicarbonate, chlorine and sodiu m hypochlorite were provided in the appropriate dosage format, i.e. bucket, in a container with a specific sized scoop and pellets, respectively, enabling the respective water treating agents to be accurately and easily dispensed to improve the swimming pool water quality.

Example 6

A single test strip for testing pH was removed from a test strip holder bottle. A comparator indicating a quantitative dosage in an appropriate dosage format for various pool volumes, was printed directly onto the outside of the test strip holder bottle. The bottle had a moveable sleeve on the outside thereof. The sleeve comprised a portion that blocked out the comparator and a window that allowed only one portion thereof to be viewed. Prior to testing, the sleeve was moved such that only the quantitative dosages for volu mes of 40,000L was located in the window, as a pool of 40,000L was being sampled.

The test strip was dipped into the water for 10 seconds. Once the test strip was removed from the water, the resultant colouring of the test strip was compared to various colour standards, which corresponded to various pH values. Each colour on the comparator indicated a quantitative dosage, where appropriate corrective action was required to improve the quality of the water.

Once the test strip had been compared to the comparator and matched to the closest colour result shown thereon, the quantitative indicated dosage was determined. In this example, the quantitative indicated dosage was four tablets of sodium bicarbonate.

The water treating agent, in this example sodium bicarbonate, was obtained in tablet form. Thus, four tablets of sodium carbonate were added to the pool water, and were observed to improve the quality thereof.

Example 7

A single test strip for testing pH was removed from a test strip holder located on the side of a sodium bisulphate bottle. A comparator, in the form of an adhesive label, indicating a quantitative dosage in the form of 'cap-fulls', was also located on the outside of the sodium bisulphate bottle. In addition to the adhesive label, a moveable sleeve had been positioned thereover so that the various comparative results could be obscured from view.

The test strip was dipped into the water for 5 seconds and then removed. Once the test strip was removed from the water, 25 seconds were allowed to pass until the colourimetric reaction had taken place. The resultant colouring of the test strip was compared to various colour standards on the comparator, which corresponded to various pH values. To do so, the moveable sleeve was moved so that each comparative result was in turn revealed for comparison. Each colour on the comparator indicated a quantitative dosage, where appropriate corrective action was required to improve the quality of the water. The comparator also provided for pools having different water temperatures, by providing an alternative indicated dosage for different water temperatures. The comparator was adapted to indicate quantitative dosages for 30,000L pools, as a pool of 30,000L was being sampled. The test strip was compared to the comparator and matched to the closest colour result shown thereon. Thus, the result was isolated in a window of the movable sleeve, and the other non-comparable results were obscured from view. This ensured that the indicated result was recorded or 'frozen' and that any further reaction on the test strip was disregarded when the indicated dosage was to be dispensed. The quantitative indicated dosage which corresponded to the water temperature of 22°C (the temperature of the water) was determined from the result window. In this example, the quantitative indicated dosage for 22°C water was 2 caps of granulated/powdered sodium bisulphate, used to lower the pH. The sodium bisulphate was poured into the cap to the 'fill line', dispensed, and repeated for the second 'cap full', to improve the pH level, by lowering it, in the pool.

Example 8

A single test strip capable of testing four parameters, such as pH, alkalinity, free chlorine and cyanuric acid, was removed from a test strip holder bottle. A comparator, in the form of an adhesive label, providing the quantitative dosages required to adjust each of the parameters was provided on the outside of the test strip holder bottle. A collar was also located over the test strip holder bottle, with a moveable sleeve provided over each comparator portion for each parameter.

The test strip was dipped into the water for 30 seconds. Once the test strip was removed from the water, the resultant colourings of each section of the test strip were compared to their respective colour standards, which corresponded to pH, alkalinity, free chlorine and cyanuric acid values, and the movable sleeve for each parameter rotated to reveal the indicated quantitative dosage, if required, for each water treating agent. The comparator label was arranged such that colour standards for each of the parameters tested were located in a vertical arrangement on the label. Each colour on the comparator indicated a quantitative dosage of a water treating agent suitable for treating, where corrective action was required to improve the quality of the water. The comparator also provided for pools of various volumes, by providing an alternative indicated dosage for different volumes of water. In this example, a pool of 20,000L was being sampled.

Each portion of the test strip was compared to the corresponding portion on the comparator, and the movable sleeve rotated until the colour shown in the window was the closest colour match to the colour shown on the test strip. In this example, the pH result was within an acceptable range, so no corrective action was required (i.e. no quantitative dosage was indicated, as no dosing was required). However, as indicated by the comparator, one bucket of sodium bicarbonate was required to adjust the alkalinity, five scoops of liquid chlorine was required to adjust the chlorine levels and 10 pellets of sodium hypochlorite were required to adjust the cyanuric acid levels.

Each of the sodium bicarbonate, chlorine and sodiu m hypochlorite were provided in the appropriate dosage format, i.e. bucket, in a container with a specific sized scoop and pellets, respectively, enabling the respective water treating agents to be accurately and easily dispensed to improve the swimming pool water quality.

Example 9

A single test strip capable of testing four parameters, such as pH, alkalinity, free chlorine and cyanuric acid, was removed from a test strip holder bottle. A comparator, in the form of an adhesive label, providing the quantitative dosages required to adjust each of the parameters was provided on the outside of the test strip holder bottle. A first collar was provided over the bottle which allowed the volume of the pool to be set, thus obscuring the non-relevant pool vol umes from view. Prior to testing, the first collar was moved and locked from additional movement such that only the quantitative dosages for volumes of 30,000L was located in the window, as a pool of 30,000L was being sampled. A second collar was also located over the first collar, with a moveable sleeve provided over each comparator portion for each parameter.

The test strip was dipped into the water for 15 seconds and then removed. Once the test strip was removed from the water, approximately 20 seconds were allowed to pass, to allow the colourimetric response to occur, before the resultant colourings of each section of the test strip were compared to their respective colour standards, which corresponded to pH, alkalinity, free chlorine and cyanuric acid val ues, and the movable sleeve for each parameter rotated to reveal the indicated quantitative dosage, if required, for each water treating agent. The comparator label was arranged such that colour standards for each of the parameters tested were located in a vertical arrangement on the label. Each colour on the comparator indicated a quantitative dosage of a water treating agent suitable for treating, where corrective action was required to improve the quality of the water.

Each portion of the test strip was compared to the corresponding portion on the comparator, and the movable sleeve rotated until the colour shown in the window was the closest colour match to the colour shown on the test strip. In this example, the pH result was within an acceptable range, so no corrective action was required (i.e. no quantitative dosage was indicated, as no dosing was required). However, as indicated by the comparator, one bucket of sodium bicarbonate was required to adjust the alkalinity, five scoops of liquid chlorine was required to adjust the chlorine levels and 10 pellets of sodium hypochlorite were required to adjust the cyanuric acid levels.

Each of the sodium bicarbonate, chlorine and sodiu m hypochlorite were provided in the appropriate dosage format, i.e. bucket, in a container with a specific sized scoop and pellets, respectively, enabling the respective water treating agents to be accurately and easily dispensed to improve the swimming pool water quality.

Whilst a number of specific system embodiments have been described, it should be appreciated that the system may be embodied in many other forms.

In the claims which follow, and in the preceding description, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the system as disclosed herein.