Which parameter is NOT typically tested with RPC strips?

The parameter that is typically not tested with RPC (Rapid Performance Check) strips is pH levels. RPC strips are designed primarily to provide quick assessments of certain water quality parameters, such as chlorine and chloramines, which are common indicators of disinfection effectiveness and water safety.

Hardness, which measures the concentration of calcium and magnesium in the water, may also be assessed using various test strips, but it is not a primary focus of RPC strips. These strips are specifically calibrated to quickly indicate the presence and concentration of chlorine and chloramines as part of routine water quality monitoring in healthcare settings, such as dialysis facilities.

In contrast, pH levels, while essential for overall water chemistry and can significantly impact treatment effectiveness and equipment longevity, are generally assessed using different types of tests or meters. These methods could include more comprehensive laboratory testing or pH-specific meters, rather than relying solely on the rapid results provided by RPC strips designed for chlorine and similar disinfection parameters. Thus, the focus of RPC strips is typically on disinfection-related components rather than broader water chemistry indicators like pH.