What is the preferred method for checking water clarity in pools?

Visual inspection is considered the preferred method for checking water clarity in pools because it allows for immediate evaluation of the water’s condition. This method enables the pool operator to assess how clear the water appears to the naked eye, which is important for ensuring that the pool is safe for swimming.

While clarity test kits and light transmission tests provide more quantitative data, they may not always accurately reflect what a swimmer would experience in the water. Visual inspection provides a quick assessment and can also reveal other immediate concerns, such as the presence of floating debris or algae growth, which may not be detected through more technical means.

Depth measurement is not directly related to the clarity of the water but rather to evaluating the depth of the pool itself. Clear water can still exist in pools of varying depths, making this method less relevant for clarity assessment. Thus, visual inspection stands out as a simple yet effective approach for gauging water clarity in swimming pools.