FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

At TPS, our heritage as a locally Australian-owned and operated water quality equipment manufacturer dates back to 1968.

Over the past five decades, we have grown into a well-known and trusted leader in water quality testing equipment.

Here's a list of our most frequently asked questions.

I have a WP-81, what is the correct pH probe replacement?

Depending on your application, we have two recommendations for pH sensors. In most cases, the standard pH sensor will be adequate. If you're conducting sampling in clearer waters or samples, we would recommend the EPBUFN-12120 1-meter pH Sensor. This sensor is designed with a plastic body, AgCl reference, and porous Teflon junction, making it suitable for such environments. It's priced at $155.00 EX-GST and comes with a BNC connection.

However, if you're dealing with more challenging samples like slurry or solid substances, we recommend the EPIJNN-121234 1-meter Premium pH Sensor. This sensor features a plastic body,
AgCl reference, and intermediate junction, making it well-suited for such demanding applications. It's
priced at $300.00 EX-GST and comes with a BNC plug for easy connection.


Choosing between these options depends on your specific requirements. If your sample is challenging, such as a slurry or solid, the Premium Sensor would be appropriate for accurate measurements.

How do I make the meter recognise my buffer?

It depends on what type of meter you are currently using, and which parameters are you attempting to test. The majority of our equipment features auto-ranging capabilities, allowing it to automatically detect the parameter you're calibrating. Ensure that you've correctly connected the appropriate probe to the designated port and are utilising the suitable standard for the specific parameter. For detailed guidance on which buffers or standards are automatically detected, and which require manual configuration, please refer to the manual provided with your instrument.

Do “DO sensors” come filled, how do I fill it?

Regarding the galvanic DO sensors, they are supplied empty and require filling and calibration prior to initial usage. You can find detailed instructions in our provided written guide that accompanies the probe. Additionally, a step-by-step video tutorial is available for your convenience; you can access it by following this link: TPS 90FLT DO Sensor Maintenance. This video demonstrates the process to ensure accurate setup and usage of the sensors.

Is it worth getting my pH meter fixed or should I just buy a new one?

At TPS, we offer maintenance services and stock spare parts for all products manufactured within the last 5 years and we do our best to extend support for even older products. Each piece of equipment has its unique history, so feel free to reach out to us to determine the most suitable options for your needs.

Regarding service costs, it's contingent on how you use the meter. We've provided a link to our online service form, which includes estimated service prices. If you anticipate servicing the meter and replacing sensors, it might be more cost-effective to consider purchasing a new kit. You can access the service form our Service pages.

This page provides a general idea of pricing for your reference

How old is my pH meter?

While we can provide a general guide based on prefixes, if you need more specific information, it is best to reach out to us for assistance. 

To proceed, we need you to provide the serial number of the unit. If the serial number isn't visible, kindly send us a photo of the unit to our email at sales@tps.com.au. This will help us better understand your situation and offer you the appropriate guidance

Can I still get a new pH probe for my old TPS pH meter?

For us to be able to assist you with this we need to know the type of connection your unit has.

If it's a BNC connection, we do provide replacement probes. If you're uncertain about the connection type, feel free to send a photo of the unit to sales@tps.com.au.

We'll be happy to identify the connection and inform you about the replacement options we have available. Additionally, there are some older parts still in stock. Get in touch, and we can talk you through the options that are accessible.

My meter has switched to a foreign language, how do I switch it back?

Since our Instruments only support English, if you are seeing different languages or characters on the instrument’s display, it's an indication that it requires servicing. To initiate this process, please reach out to us using our service form to schedule the servicing.

My probe is faulty, how long should they normally last?

The lifespan of sensors is influenced by usage, cleaning routines, and storage conditions. Generally, pH sensors tend to last around 1-2 years, while other sensors have a longer lifespan of approximately 3-4 years. However, the actual duration can vary.

The longevity of your sensors is contingent upon factors such as the specific probe in use and the frequency of usage. 

For detailed maintenance information, you can refer to our website at this link: Maintenance This resource provides comprehensive guidance on how to effectively maintain your sensors for extended functionality.

Do I need to calibrate the temperature?

Indeed, temperature plays a crucial role in testing most parameters accurately. If you're uncertain about how to incorporate temperature measurements into your tests, we recommend following our quick start guide for clear instructions. Additionally, you can access the relevant handbook for your instrument on our website using this link: Manuals. These resources will provide you with the necessary guidance to ensure accurate and reliable parameter testing.

How do I go about getting the equipment serviced?

Kindly complete our online service form. This form will facilitate the process of initiating the necessary service for your equipment.

How do I calibrate?

We recommend following the provided quick start guide or referring to the manual for proper guidance. If you need a copy of the manual, you can find all our manuals conveniently available on our website: Manuals.

Furthermore, we offer a comprehensive training program designed to empower you and/or your operators with the skills needed to optimise the potential of your water quality equipment and data. This training is aimed at addressing challenges arising from user knowledge gaps and calibration complexities. To learn more about this training program, please get in touch with Ben McColl at 0405 984 484 or ben.mccoll@tps.com.au. Ben will be glad to provide you with further information.

When should I calibrate?

It's advisable to perform an initial calibration upon receiving your equipment. Subsequent calibration frequency should be determined by your usage. Typically, calibrating every 1-2 weeks is adequate, or whenever you switch to a different probe.

In an ideal scenario, we recommend calibrating before each measurement for optimal results. However, it's important to adhere to your organisation's procedures and guidelines regarding calibration practices.

What does the K factor mean?

The K factor of a 2-pole EC sensor defines its operational range, with K=0.1 suitable for distilled water, K=1 for surface water, and K=10 for seawater. To explain in simpler terms, the K factor corresponds to the spacing between plates within a conductivity sensor. For instance, a K=0.1 sensor features closely spaced plates, making it highly effective for measuring lower conductivity values. On the other hand, a K=10 sensor has plates positioned farther apart, making it well-suited for accurately measuring higher conductivity levels, like those found in seawater.

How often should we have our meter serviced?

We suggest scheduling a yearly service for all your equipment. However, if you encounter substantial issues with the equipment, we offer a free quoting service to assess and diagnose any problems. Feel free to reach out, and we'll be happy to take a look and provide you with the necessary assistance.

Does TPS have a local service tech?

Our servicing operations are carried out at our factory located in Brendale, QLD. If you're in the local area, you have the option to personally visit and drop off your unit for our technicians to assess. While we don't provide same-day quotes, we do offer a priority service for expedited assistance if you require your equipment back promptly. You can access more details about this priority service option here.

This form will provide you with comprehensive information and help you proceed with the appropriate service option.

When should I get new buffers?

Our buffers are packaged with an expiry date on the bottle at the factory, indicating their optimal usage period. It is recommended to replace these buffers before reaching the expiry date or if contamination occurs—this includes avoiding direct probe contact with the solution container and instead decanting a suitable amount for calibration purposes. 

Your precision and accuracy in following these guidelines will contribute to reliable results.

What buffer should I use to calibrate?

The appropriate calibration parameters depend on your specific parameters and application requirements. Here are the default values for various parameters:

  • pH: Default buffers are 4 and 7.
  • Conductivity: Default values are K=1 (2.76 ms/cm), K=10 (58 ms/cm), and K=0.1 (1413 us/cm).
  • Dissolved Oxygen (DO): A zero solution is prepared by mixing supplied sodium sulphide and conducting a calibration in the air.
  • Turbidity: Default values are 90 NTU and 900 NTU.
  • ORP: A zobell solution that reads 231 mV when mixed correctly.

If you need parameters not mentioned here, feel free to contact us. 

For detailed instructions, please refer to the manual for your instrument. In most cases, we recommend calibrating at points both above and below the usual test values for optimal results. Your adherence to these guidelines will contribute to accurate and reliable measurements.