Chloride Test for Monitoring Chloride Levels in Water
WaterWorks™ Chloride Check is a colour-comparison test for estimating the chloride concentration in water. It is suitable for monitoring chloride levels in drinking water and tracking changes associated with water treatment, including water softening. The result is indicative; this test alone cannot confirm that water is safe to drink or that a water softener is operating correctly.
Why choose the WaterWorks™ Chloride Test?
- Measures chloride levels from 0 to 500 ppm (mg/L)
- Clear five-level colour comparison scale
- Result is read after a 30-second waiting period
- Contains 50 test strips
- No separate reagents or measuring instruments required
What does the chloride test measure?
The test estimates the chloride concentration in water. The measurement levels on the colour chart are 0, 50, 100, 250 and 500 ppm (mg/L). Because the result is determined by visually comparing the test strip with the colour chart, the test does not provide an exact laboratory measurement.
In the United States, the EPA lists 250 mg/L as a non-enforceable secondary drinking-water standard for chloride. Secondary standards concern properties such as taste, odour and appearance rather than establishing that water is safe to drink. Requirements and recommendations may differ between countries and regions.
Chloride can also contribute to the corrosiveness of water. This test helps determine which level on the colour scale most closely matches the sample, but one measurement cannot establish the overall quality or safety of the water.
When should chloride levels be monitored?
Chloride levels can be monitored when you want to track the properties of drinking water or changes associated with water treatment. Testing may also be useful when monitoring changes related to the use of a water softener. The result only provides information about the chloride concentration and does not replace comprehensive water analysis.
How to perform the chloride test
- Collect a 250 mL water sample in a clean container.
- Immerse one test strip in the sample for 10 seconds, moving it gently back and forth throughout this time.
- Remove the strip and shake it briskly once to remove excess water.
- Wait 30 seconds.
- Compare the colour of the strip with the colour chart on the container.
Always follow the instructions supplied with the product.
How should the result be interpreted?
Select the level on the colour chart that most closely matches the test strip: 0, 50, 100, 250 or 500 mg/L. The result is indicative. If the result is 250 mg/L or higher, the taste or other properties of the water have changed, or an exact concentration is required, confirm the result through laboratory analysis.
What is included in the package?
The package contains 50 WaterWorks™ Chloride Check test strips, instructions for use and a colour chart printed on the container. You will also need a clean container, a 250 mL water sample and a timer.
Frequently asked questions about the chloride test
Can the test determine whether water is safe to drink?
No. The test only estimates the chloride concentration. Assessing the overall safety of drinking water may also require testing its other chemical and microbiological properties.
Can the test be used when monitoring a water softener?
Yes. The test can be used to track changes in chloride levels associated with water softening. However, the result alone cannot confirm that the equipment is operating correctly in every respect.
How quickly is the result available?
Keep the strip in the water sample for 10 seconds, shake it briskly once and read the result after a 30-second waiting period.
Does the test provide an exact chloride concentration?
No. This is an indicative colour-comparison test with measurement levels of 0, 50, 100, 250 and 500 mg/L. An exact concentration must be determined through laboratory analysis.
What does a result of 250 mg/L mean?
The US EPA lists 250 mg/L as a non-enforceable secondary standard for chloride in drinking water. If the strip corresponds to 250 or 500 mg/L, consider confirming the result through laboratory analysis, particularly if the water’s taste or other properties have changed. Always follow the requirements and recommendations applicable in your area.
How many measurements can be performed with one package?
The package contains 50 test strips and can therefore be used for 50 separate measurements.
Read our guide to choosing a water test and explore our other water quality tests.
Order the WaterWorks™ Chloride Test for simple monitoring of chloride levels in water.
