How do I take accurate pH readings?

Carefully! Remember pH is chemistry and chemistry is an exact science. Follow these tips:

• Thoroughly read your meters and electrodes instruction manuals before using them. 
• After reading your manuals practice calibrating and taking samples readings to make sure you know what you are doing and are carefully following instructions. 
• Accurate pH measurements involve a clean pH electrode that measures the chemistry of the Hydrogen Ion using an electro-chemical pH electrode. Proper calibration and measuring procedures carefully applied will result in accurate readings. 
• Use fresh clean pH buffers to calibrate your clean pH electrode and the particular pH meter it is connected to. Use one or more known chemical standards called pH buffers to do your electrode / meter calibration. 
• Allow sufficient time for your pH electrode to stabilize in pH and to reach thermal equilibrium during calibration and sample testing. 
• Always be sure to clean your pH electrode in electrode cleaning solution and after cleaning to rinse it in deionized water and then store it in electrode storage solution or pH buffer 4.01.