How to calibrate your pH meter

Calibrating your pH meters on a regular basis is an essential part of securing accurate and repeatable results.  

The frequency of these tests will vary depending on several factors, namely the applications carried out at your site and the auditing body you are working with. However, in an ideal world, you would calibrate your pH meters before every testing session. 

Fortunately, the calibration process is incredibly simple. You will find a video tutorial below, along with a list of written instructions below. You can also click here to learn more about the off-site calibration of your pH meters. 

Calibrating a pH meter – Video Guide

The video tutorial below features the PHT810 Handheld pH Meter, a popular piece of kit throughout the food production industry.  

However, if you would like guidance relating to another device, you are welcome to contact our support team on 01473 461800 or sales@klipspringer.com. 

Calibrating a pH meter – Written Instructions

Alternatively, if you and your team would prefer to follow written instructions. You will find a step-by-step guide below.

They have been written with the PHT810 Handheld pH Meter in mind. However, if you would like guidance relating to another device, you are welcome to contact our support team on 01473 461800 or sales@klipspringer.com. 

1. Source buffer solutions that are applicable to your testing range. At Klipspringer, we supply solutions at pH 1.68, 2, 4, 7 and 10.  

2. Measure out around 30ml of pH buffer solution for each test. A dosing bottle will make this process easier and more efficient.  

NOTE: buffer solution is temperature sensitive, so the temperature at which your calibration is performed will impact the results. You won’t need to manually measure and input temperature if you are using a pH meter that features Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC). 

3. Using a pH Electrode Cleaning Solution and a non-abrasive tissue, carefully remove any contaminants from the glass membrane of your electrode.  

4. Switch the unit on and place the electrode into your first pH buffer solution. Press the ‘CAL’ button, then select the product temperature using the up and down arrows.  

5. Using the up and down arrows, change the number of calibration points to two. Confirm your selection by pressing the ‘CAL’ button. ‘CAL 1’ will appear on the display, press ‘CAL’ again to confirm.  

6. Stir the electrode in the solution. Once the display reads ‘OKAY’ then ‘CAL 2’, remove it and dry with a soft paper towel. Place the electrode in distilled water for around 20-30 seconds to avoid contaminating the buffer solutions. 

7. Place the electrode into the second buffer solution, then press the ‘CAL’ button. Once the display has changed to ‘OKAY’, the calibration process is complete. Remove, clean, and dry the electrode with a soft paper towel. 

pH Meters – A Guide to Off-Site Calibration

In addition to regular, on-site calibrations, your pH meters should also be sent off to a third-party for external calibration. This is the best way to confirm the accuracy of each instrument and to secure the highest possible safety standards. 

The frequency of these external calibrations may vary, but ideally, the process should be carried out at least once a year.  

Our in-house laboratory will be able to support you in this area, offering a turnaround time of 2-3 days. Our technical team can also specialises in servicing and repairs. 

To discover our wide range of pH measurement equipment or to access our guide on caring for your pH instrumentation, you can explore the resources linked below. 

Discover our full range of pH meters and accessories
How to use and care for your pH meter and accessories

You can also reach out to our support team on 01473 461800 or sales@klipspringer.com. Alternatively, you can share your details using the contact form below.   

If you want to learn more about pH Meters, the Klipspringer team would be happy to help. Share your details below to arrange a free consultation.