Care and use guide
Contents page
Features 2
Bluelab pH Probe 2
Preparing for use 3
Important Bluelab pH Probe care 3
Calibration 4
Cleaning the pH probe 5
Storing the pH probe 5
Hydrating the pH probe 6
Technical speci cations 6
Troubleshooting guide 7
Bluelab pH Probe care 8
Limited product guarantee 9
Limitation of liability 9
Contact details 9
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Features
Easy to clean Waterproof cable joint
Gel fi lled (non-refi llable) Quality BNC connection
Double junction 2 meter / 6.56 foot standard cable
Probe holder included (keeps probe secure)
Bluelab pH Probe
Waterproof cable joint
pH probe holder
suction cup
pH probe tip
BNC connector
Glass tube inside
plastic barrel
pH probe storage cap
The pH probe tip must not be allowed to dry out.
Always place the storage cap back onto the pH
probe after each use. Ensure the cap contains
enough Bluelab pH Probe KCl Storage Solution to
cover the probe tip.
ATTENTION
If it dries, it dies!
Keep your pH probe tip wet
at all times to avoid permanent damage
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Glass bulb
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1.0 Preparing for use
The following tasks must be performed before the Bluelab pH Probe is used for the fi rst time.
Connect pH probe
Connect the pH probe to the meter by lining up
the lugs of the BNC fi ttings.
Fasten securely by pushing the pH probe
connector on and twisting one quarter turn.
Remove the storage cap
Remove the pH probe storage cap by gripping
the top of the cap and gently twisting the base
one rotation clockwise to loosen slightly. Next
slowly slide the cap off the pH probe. DO NOT
completely remove the base of the cap from the
top of the cap.
CAUTION: When the pH probe is not in use, add
enough Bluelab pH Probe KCl Storage Solution to
the storage cap so the probe tip is covered. Then
replace the cap and store in a secure place.
DO NOT use RO (Reverse Osmosis), Distilled
or De-ionized water. Pure water changes
the chemistry in the reference, causing the
probe to die.
2.0 IMPORTANT - Bluelab pH Probe care
pH probes DO NOT last forever. They age through normal use and will eventually fail. The life
time of a pH probe depends on the environment it is used in and the way that it is treated. To
receive a long life from your pH probe, please ensure you follow the guide below.
pH probes contain glass and are therefore FRAGILE. With good care, they will give a long
service life.
• ALWAYS loosen the storage cap before removing or replacing on the pH probe tip.
• DO NOT let the pH probe tip dry. IF IT DRIES IT DIES!
• DO NOT bend the probe; this will break its internal glass tube.
• DO NOT knock the probe; this will break its internal glass tube or external glass bulb.
• DO NOT plunge a cold pH probe into a hot liquid - sudden temperature changes can
crack the glass and permanently damage the probe.
• DO NOT immerse in oils, proteins or suspended solids that will leave a coating on
the glass bulb.
• DO NOT ‘kink’ or bend the lead sharply.
• DO NOT attempt to lengthen the lead on the pH probe.
• DO NOT wet the BNC connector at the end of the lead.
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Inserting Twisting Attached
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Attaching the
Bluelab pH Probe to the Meter
Removing pH probe
storage cap
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Ensure probe tip is covered by
the KCl storage solution in cap
3.0 Calibration
pH calibration is required before fi rst use and then monthly to ensure readings are
accurate.
To calibrate the probe to the pH instrument:
Clean pH probe tip.
See section 4.0 (the pH probe does not require cleaning before the fi rst use).
Calibrate the pH.
This must be done before the pH probe is used for the fi rst time. Follow the calibration
instructions on the back of the meter, in the manual or watch our videos online.
For accurate pH readings the pH probe is cleaned and recalibrated when:
• The reading is different to what you were expecting.
• The batteries have been removed or changed.
• The pH probe is replaced with a new one or is disconnected from the meter.
• The pH calibration indicators have disappeared.
When calibrating the pH after fi rst use the pH probe needs to be cleaned. See pH probe
cleaning in section 4.0. The pH probe does not need to be cleaned prior to initial calibration.
For best pH calibration
pH reading accuracy is dependant on the accuracy and age of the calibration
solutions used, and use and cleanliness of the pH probe tip.
• Ensure the pH probe has been cleaned and rinse the pH probe tip with clean water
between calibration solutions to reduce contamination of the pH solutions.
• Only fresh uncontaminated solutions should be used.
• Calibrate the pH at the same temperature as the solution to be measured.
• ALWAYS calibrate the pH probe with pH 7.0 then pH 4.0 or pH 10.0.
The pH calibration involves cleaning the pH probe tip and then calibrating in
TWO SOLUTIONS.
If a reading below pH 7.0 is expected, use pH 7.0 and pH 4.0 calibration solutions.
If a reading above pH 7.0 is expected, use pH 7.0 and pH 10.0 calibration solutions.
Storage and use of calibration solutions
• Always place the lid back onto the bottle after use or evaporation will occur rendering
the solution useless.
• Store in a cool place.
• DO NOT measure directly into the bottle. Tip a small
amount into a clean container and discard after use.
• Never add water to solutions.
pH reading accuracy is dependant on the accuracy
and age of the calibration solutions used, and
use and cleanliness of the pH probe tip.
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4.0 Cleaning the Bluelab pH Probe
To ensure accurate readings the pH probe tip needs to be rinsed in water after each
use and cleaned prior to calibration using the following instructions.
The storage cap must always be put back on after cleaning. Always ensure it contains
enough Bluelab pH Probe KCl Storage Solution to cover the probe tip.
Remove storage cap from pH probe.
Hold the top of the storage cap, twist the
cap to loosen then remove.
Rinse pH probe tip under fresh tap water.
Never use RO (Reverse Osmosis), Distilled
or De-ionized water.
Fill a small plastic container with clean
tap water.
Add a small amount of Bluelab pH Probe
Cleaner or mild detergent (dishwashing liquid).
Gently stir the probe tip in the mixture.
Ensure that you do not ‘knock’ the pH
probe on the side of the container as this
may cause damage to the probe.
Rinse well under fresh running water to
remove all traces of the detergent mixture.
If the probe tip requires removal of heavy
contamination:
Gently brush around the glassware with a
few drops of Bluelab pH Probe Cleaner or
mild detergent (dishwashing liquid) and a
soft toothbrush.
Rinse well under fresh running tap water to
remove all traces of the detergent mixture.
Calibrate pH probe to meter after cleaning.
Follow the calibration instructions on the
back of the meter, in the manual or watch
our videos online.
5.0 Storing the Bluelab pH Probe
To prepare the pH probe for storage:
Add enough Bluelab pH Probe KCl Storage
Solution into the probe storage cap to fully
submerge the pH probe tip. Then replace
the cap and store in a secure place.
DO NOT use RO (Reverse Osmosis), Distilled
or De-ionized water. Pure water changes
the chemistry in the reference, causing the
probe to die.
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pH calibration
solution
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6.0 Hydrating the pH probe
Hydrate the pH probe in Bluelab pH Probe KCl Storage Solution when:
• the probe tip has not always been stored in KCl storage solution, to improve the
reading response speed.
• the probe tip has been accidentally allowed to dry out.
Never use RO (Reverse Osmosis), De-ionized or Distilled water.
Pure water changes the chemistry in the reference, causing the probe to die.
Loosen, then remove the storage cap.
Place the pH probe upright in a plastic
container.
Clean the pH probe tip.
Ensure the probe tip has been cleaned
before hydrating. See section 4.0 for
instructions.
Add enough Bluelab pH Probe KCl
Storage Solution to a plastic container to
submerge the pH probe tip.
Leave to soak for at least 24 hours.
After hydration, always calibrate the pH
probe to ensure accuracy.
7.0 Technical speci cations
pH
Measurement range 0.0 - 14.0 pH
Accuracy at 25 °C/77 °F ±0.1 pH
Reference Double junction, Ag/AgCl, Sat. KCl gel
Operating environment
0 - 60 °C
32 - 144 °F
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Bluelab pH Probe KCl
Storage Solution
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8.0 Troubleshooting guide
Trouble Reason Correction
pH reading does not
change from solution
to solution
Broken glass bulb,
tube or connector
Check pH probe for damage.
Replace probe.
pH reading inaccurate
(Drift, readings slowly
varying)
Contaminated pH probe /
glassware not clean
Clean pH probe (see section 4.0);
then calibrate.
Wick contaminated,
blocked or dry
Hydrate probe in KCl storage
solution for up to 24 hours, see
section 6.0. Avoid measuring
proteins or oils. Replace unit.
Incorrect pH calibration
Ensure calibration solutions are
accurate. Replace if in doubt.
Wait longer for readings to
stabilize to a constant value
before calibrating.
Calibrate using two points - 7.0 pH,
then 4.0 pH or 10.0 pH.
pH calibration unreliable Calibrate pH probe.
pH probe damaged or old. Replace pH probe.
Incorrect sample
reading following
successful calibration
Ground loop (often occurs
in process systems)
Verify by removing the sample
from its environment then take
measurement. May require electrical
circuitry to be checked in system.
Wick blocked Replace probe.
Unsuccessful
calibration
(Low slope <90%)
Buffers inaccurate Replace buffers.
Glassware not clean
Clean pH probe (see section 4.0);
then calibrate.
Glassware aged
(glassware will not clean)
Replace probe.
BNC fi tting wet
Use cloth to dry (note terms of
guarantee).
Noisy - readings
jumping
Poor connection to meter
Check probe is connected to
meter correctly.
Contact zone not
immersed
Lower probe into solution at least
2 cm / 1”.
Displays pH 7
for all buffers
Electrical short
Check BNC fi tting and cable for
damage.
BNC fi tting wet
Use cloth to dry (note terms of
guarantee).
Broken or cracked glass
bulb or tube
Replace probe.
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Bluelab Probe Care Kits
The instrument is only as accurate as the probe is clean!
Probe cleaning is one of the most important parts of owning and operating
any Bluelab meter, monitor or controller.
If the probe is contaminated (dirty) it affects the accuracy of the reading displayed.
Bluelab Probe Care Kit range is
available for:
• pH probe care
• pH & conductivity probe care
• Conductivity probe care
All the tools you need are included
in each kit.
To re-stock your care kit, choose
from the Bluelab Solutions range.
Bluelab Probe Care Kit - pH contains:
› Probe care instructions
› 3 x plastic cups
› 20ml single-use Bluelab Solution
Sachets, 2 each of: pH 7.0 & pH 4.0, KCl
› Bluelab pH Probe Cleaner
› Toothbrush (pH probe cleaning
instrument)
Bluelab pH Probe KCl Storage
Solution
The perfect solution to store and hydrate
your Bluelab pH products.
Bluelab pH Probe KCl Storage Solution is designed
to increase response time and maximize the life of
Bluelab pH pens and pH probes.
For best results, use the KCl solution for storage of the
pH probe.
Instructions are on the label of the bottle.
Use Bluelab pH Probe KCl Storage Solution with:
› Bluelab pH Pen
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› Bluelab Soil pH Pen
› Bluelab pH Probes
› Bluelab Soil pH Probes
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Bluelab pH Probe limited product guarantee
Bluelab Corporation Limited guarantees this product for a period of 6 months from the date of
sale to the original purchaser.
Standard Terms and Conditions of the Bluelab Limited Product Guarantee:
How Long Does The Coverage Last? 1) The product guarantee becomes effective from the date
of purchase by the fi rst purchaser. Coverage terminates if you sell or otherwise transfer the product;
2) The repair of your product under guarantee will not extend the period of the guarantee.
How Do You Get Service? 1) Products are to be returned to point of purchase; 2) Any parts replaced
will become the property of Bluelab Corporation Limited (“Bluelab”).
What is covered? Provided you supply proof of purchase via a store-printed receipt, we will repair or replace your product
if your product is found, within the guarantee period, to be defective due to defective materials or workmanship existing
at the time of purchase. If any part is no longer available or out of manufacture, Bluelab will replace it with a functionallyequivalent replacement part.
What is not covered? Bluelab shall not be liable for costs of repair or replacement of a product incurred as a result of:
1) Normal wear and tear; 2) Accidental damage, faults caused by negligent use or care, neglect, careless operation or
handling of the product which is not in accordance with the Bluelab Instruction Manuals; 3) Use of parts not assembled
or installed in accordance with the instructions of Bluelab; 4) Use of parts or accessories other than those produced or
recommended by Bluelab; 5) External sources such as transit damage or weather; 6) Repairs or alterations carried out by
parties other than Bluelab or its authorised agents; 7) Serial numbers defaced or missing.
TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THIS GUARANTEE AND THE REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE
EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, GUARANTEES AND REMEDIES, WHETHER ORAL OR WRITTEN,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES THAT MAY BE IMPOSED BY LAW (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION,
MERCHANTABILITY) ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE PERIOD OF THIS LIMITED GUARANTEE.
How Does State Law Relate to This Warranty? Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty
lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you. Additionally, some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This guarantee gives you
specifi c legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from state to state.
Register your guarantee online at www.getbluelab.com
Limitation of liability
Under no circumstances shall Bluelab Corporation Limited be liable for any claims, losses, costs
and damages of any nature whatsoever (including any consequential loss) that result from the
use of, or the inability to use, these instructions.
To watch instruction videos, visit our online video library
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at www.getbluelab.com
If you need assistance or advice - we’re here to help you.
Phone: +64 7 578 0849 Fax: +64 7 578 0847
Email: support@getbluelab.com
Looking for specifi cations or technical advice?
Visit us online at www.getbluelab.com
Bluelab Corporation Limited
8 Whiore Avenue, Tauriko Industrial Park
Tauranga 3110, New Zealand
Instruction Manual English PROBPH_V02_160514
© Copyright 2014, all rights reserved, Bluelab Corporation Limited
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