Before the doors open
Take the first test of the day before guests arrive and before the venue opens. That early check gives you a starting point for the log and helps you spot problems before the pool or spa is put into service. Poolsheet can help you keep that routine in one place, along with notes and follow up on guides.
Manual feed
When the site uses manual feed, test while the water is open to use and keep the interval shorter than an automated setup. The exact window comes from the model code note on this page, and your local code may be stricter. You can capture the readings in a log sheet or explore features that fit your workflow.
Automated feed
When the site uses an automated controller, test while the water is open to use and follow the longer interval listed in the model code note on this page. An automated controller does not remove the need to test and write the reading down. If you want to try the app, you can join the waitlist.
What this guide will not set
This guide does not replace your local code, site procedures, or required recordkeeping. It is a planning aid for commercial pool and spa testing, not a final rule for every facility. For the latest overview of Poolsheet, start at the home page.
Test rhythm in the model code
- Before opening each day, test free chlorine or combined chlorine or total bromine, and pH (section 5.7.5.1).
- Manual disinfectant feed with no automated controller: also test free chlorine or bromine and pH every 2 hours while the venue is open (section 5.7.5.2).
- Automated disinfectant feed: test free chlorine or total bromine and pH every 4 hours while the venue is open (section 5.7.5.3).
- Total alkalinity is tested weekly (section 5.7.5.5). A numeric alkalinity window is not printed here.
- Calcium hardness is tested monthly (section 5.7.5.6). A numeric hardness window is not printed here.
Sources: 2024 CDC Model Aquatic Health Code, 5th edition (PDF) and CDC notes on operating public pools. Poolsheet is not part of the CDC.
Follow your local health department code. Poolsheet is not a health authority, not a pool operator license, and nothing here means the water is safe. The CDC Model Aquatic Health Code is voluntary guidance, not your local rule.