How to read the HTH Early warning pool test strips: Even though testing your pool water is as easy as 1,2,3 the order in which you should correct them can be confusing. Let’s break it down: If your pool is blue, then it’s simple, you would follow the order below: - Step 1. TA – (Total Alkalinity) recommended 80 – 120ppm this acts as a buffer for your pH. - Step 2. pH – (measures the acidity and alkaline levels ) _ recommended 7.2 – 7.6. This helps to balance the pool water so that your chlorine