Eight identical vials were each filled with one of the types (calcium ion or carbonate ion) of test solutions and were labeled. The labels were obscured and the vials were mixed to a random order for each test type (GH or KH). A test kit (GH or KH) was chosen and a vial from that type group was selected randomly for testing, until all vials had been selected. The tests were performed exactly following the respective manufacturers’ instructions included in the packaging. The results of the tests were recorded. The label was then removed from the vial and the identity was noted. This procedure was repeated for each test kit.

Interpreting The Results

          A test kit’s accuracy was judged based on how close the observed reading was to that of the concentration of the test solutions (ppm CaCO₃). The accuracy was then fit to a scale of 1 to 5 flasks, with 5 being the most accurate. A kit’s ease of use was judged based on many factors. A few of the factors were: 1) ease of filling the test vial, 2) ease of comparing the sample reading to the provided concentration chart, 4) ease of spilling the test vial, 5) ease of following the manufacturer’s directions, etc. Some factors were more important than others, but all of them were taken into account in evaluating

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