From simple pH measurements with paper strips to complicated multi-parameter measurements, determining the levels of chemical constituents of water samples is important in many areas of science and research. With the testers and kits found on this site this work is now easier than ever. Hanna Instruments work constantly to produce the best equipment to make this vital work easier, quicker, more economical and most importantly more accurate.

There are a number of different methods that can be used to measure the same parameter and each is better for different situations.

Electronic meters give a very accurate result as they use electrodes to determine the concentration of chemicals in a substance. These can be used for four of the most important parameters ie. pH, oxidation reduction potential (ORP), total dissolved solids (TDS) and dissolved oxygen (DO). They display their readings on easy to read LCDs. They require a certain amount of maintenance and buffer solutions are required to maintain their accuracy.

They may seem messy and complicated but as they come in well organised packs with full instructions they are not difficult to use. They may not be the most accurate as they rely on comparisons with charts to determine the readings but they are very economicla and ideal for use in the field.

Photometers use light to determine the colour produced by a reaction between the sample and the reagent. Because they use custom microprocessors with a diode photocell they are much more accurate than trying to compare colours to a chart. They also produce the reading quicker and more simply than the electrode based electronic meters. Single parameter photometers will provide fast accurate readins without fuss or mess. The multiparameter bench photmeters will work for almost 40 different parameters with just one machine (and the appropriate reagents). However this degree of accuracy and flexibility comes at a price!

If you don't require the accuracy of test meters we now supply a range of simple water test strips which give a clear indication of water quality.