How to test the ICO ORP sensor?

A simple test with mineral water can be used to check the reliability of your ICO's ORP/REDOX sensor. When is this test useful? Your ORP measurements seem inconsistent or are fluctuating (large gaps between two measurements). In this article, we'll give you tips on how to perform this test, and indicators for interpreting the results. Remember that regular maintenance of the sensor is also essential to guarantee its performance. To find out more about the ORP, check out our article everything you need to know about the ORP, which also includes an explanatory video.

Reminder of ORP sensor use conditions

In normal use, the sensors are designed to last for several years. The lifetime of ORP sensors varies between 2 and 4 years, depending on conditions of use (regeneration, calibration, wintering ....). Ondilo guarantees the sensor for 1 year.

  • Use Ondilo sensors, including the ORP sensor, in accordance with the conditions specified in our recommendations for use. This includes, among other things, regular calibration of sensors as well as compliance with storage conditions when winterizing your device.
  • You need to use an ORP sensor that is compatible with your pool's water treatment. This may be the Platinum model for chlorine/bromine or the Gold model for salt.

Testing the ICO ORP sensor with mineral water

To test your ORP sensor, you'll need your ICO switched on, a bottle of mineral water with pH indication, and a clean bowl or container.

A 5-step test:

  1. Remove your ICO from the water, then unscrew the bottom cover by 1/4 turn to gain access to the sensors.
  2. Then rinse the sensors with tap water and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
  3. Open a bottle of mineral water and pour the water (approx. 25-30cl) into a container.
  4. Immerse sensors completely in container.
  5. Leave ICO in water for at least 2 hours. ICO will take measurements.

How to read ORP measurements taken during the test

In your ICO application, find the last two ORP measurements to read the results.

Mesures ORP cohérentes

A consistent ORP measurement is between 100 and 500 mV.

  1. The measured values are consistent between the two tests: your sensor is operating normally. If you wish, you can check these results by calibrating the sensor.
  2. ORP values are different from the last measurements taken by ICO in your pool or spa: please contact your pool specialist.
    • This problem may be linked to your pool/spa environment, such as stray currents.
    • It may also be a problem linked to the incompatibility of certain chemicals, such as active oxygen.

ORP measurements inconsistent with mineral water used

An ORP measure is inconsistent:

  • outside expected optimum values (0 mV or over 1000 mV)
  • if the variation between 2 measurements is greater than 100 mV

What to do when the ORP measure is inconsistent?

Inconsistent measurements indicate sensor malfunction.

  1. Your ORP sensor is less than 1 year old, so it's under warranty (see the purchase date on your invoice). Please contact our Ondilo customer service .
  2. Your ORP sensor have more than 12 months from the date of purchase : order a new ORP sensor from our Ondilo store. Select a platinum ORP sensor compatible with chlorine and bromine or a Gold ORPsensor compatible with salt treatment.
  3. You have already had your ORP sensor replaced within the last 12 months: please contact our Ondilo support service.

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