Reading pH strips

[kharper6]

Alright so I bought some pH strips that go from 4.6-5.8 from Precision Labs.

If I follow the instructions and take the reading after 10-15 seconds my water is 5.0. If I check again after about 45 seconds it reads 6.2+ (very dark purple).

Should I be concerned about this? It seems to get darker the longer it sits. Is this normal?

 

[tootal]

Some strips need to be under water for that much time so re-read the instructions and follow them to the letter. Different brands act differently. If it says to take the reading after 10 seconds then use that reading. They will change color as they dry.