pH - how to take a reading

[Dan]

I usualy measure the pH of the mash by literally scooping out an eggcup of mash (grain and all) cooling it and sticking the probe in.
the last time i measured i tested the run off from the tap.

I assumed they would always be the same value, but they wernt.

perhaps its because i hadnt mixed properly

anyway, just for future reference, Is there a right and wrong way to take a pH reading?

[Aleman]

Could be your meter, it is surprising just how 'variable' they can be, Even mine which is reclaimed lab surplus and uses probes at 120 quid will show subsequent readings that are significantly different. The one thing I have learned is to be consistent, Zero the meter in buffer, take the reading, zero the meter, take another reading, clean the probe and zero it in buffer, store for the next one.

What sort of particulates are in solution can also have an effect.

I've moved over to these Brouland pH Strips, and I've found them to be pretty good, which is a surprise for me as generally I've found pH strips to be pretty useless. But now I know my water and system I can judge where the pH is going to end up and the strips are a good indication that something is 'wrong' or a reassurance that its all right

[bandit]

Who is selling the Brouland pH Strips?

[delboy]

I usualy measure the pH of the mash by literally scooping out an eggcup of mash (grain and all) cooling it and sticking the probe in.
the last time i measured i tested the run off from the tap.

I assumed they would always be the same value, but they wernt.

perhaps its because i hadnt mixed properly

anyway, just for future reference, Is there a right and wrong way to take a pH reading?

As far as i know the reading with a probe will be affected by temperature (most are calibrated for 20 C, i think).
Also the probe will not give a proper reading when it is agitated in the solution or in your case when placing it in the run-off.
For these reasons I would think the 'cooled eggcup' reading is the more accurate of the two.

[Aleman]

Who is selling the Brouland pH Strips?

I got mine from Hop and Grape

[brewsters millionths]

the home brew shop as well. farnborough