The Strip Scanner replaces the guesswork of manual test strip reading with a 20-second camera-based analysis. Take a photo of a standard test strip, and the Gecko App reads your pH, ORP, chlorine, and alkalinity levels automatically, then tells you exactly what to add based on your own chemicals. No color charts, no calculation, no chemistry knowledge required.
The Old Way vs. The Strip Scanner
Manual Testing: 6 Steps, High Error Rate
1. Dip the strip
2. Wait
3. Hold next to a faded color chart
4. Squint and guess the shade
5. Search online for what it means
6. Calculate how much chemical to add
Most owners skip or rush several steps. The result: water that is over-treated or chronically under-balanced.
Strip Scanner: 3 Steps, Personalized Result
1. Dip the strip
2. Take a photo with the Gecko App
3. Read and apply your recommendations
What the Strip Scanner Reads
pH (ideal: 7.2 to 7.8): acidic or basic balance. The most critical parameter.
ORP (ideal: 650 to 750 mV): a direct measure of sanitizer effectiveness.
Free chlorine or bromine (ideal: 1 to 3 ppm): your active sanitizer level.
Total alkalinity (ideal: 80 to 120 ppm): pH buffer. Stabilize this first.
Calcium hardness (ideal: 150 to 300 ppm): mineral content protecting equipment from corrosion.
What Happens After the Scan
The app does not just display numbers. It gives you a personalized action plan:
Add 2 tablespoons of pH Minus.
Recommendations are calculated to your spa’s specific volume and the products you already use. Once every chemical is added, the app automatically starts your jets to circulate the water.
Every test is logged automatically. Over time, charts show how each parameter evolves, helping you spot trends before they become problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the Strip Scanner measure?
A: pH (7.2 to 7.8), ORP, free chlorine or bromine (1 to 3 ppm), total alkalinity (80 to 120 ppm), and calcium hardness (150 to 300 ppm), depending on the strip used.
Q: Is the Strip Scanner on the free Gecko App?
A: No. Exclusive to Premium ($99/year, 14-day trial). Requires in.touch 3 or in.touch 3+.
Q: Can any test strip work with the Strip Scanner?
A: Standard multi-parameter strips from pool and spa retailers work. Use strips covering pH, chlorine, and ORP. See the full list of supported test strips at support.geckoapp.io.
Q: How often should I use the Strip Scanner?
A: At least 2 to 3 times per week under normal use. After heavy use with multiple bathers, test again. If using Gecko waterlab (in.touch 3+), key parameters are monitored continuously, but a monthly manual water report is still required.