Hofun Unreliable Readings — Pool PH & Salt Issues Review

Data basis: This report used dozens of written reviews and several video demonstrations collected between Jan 2023 and Jan 2026. Most feedback came from written reviews, supported by demonstration clips and product Q&A. The signals below reflect commonly reported buyer experiences, not lab tests.

Are the readings inconsistent or do results drift over time?

Primary concern: Many buyers called out inconsistent readings as the main regret point. This pattern is commonly reported across written reviews and demo videos.

Usage anchor: Issues appear after setup and get worse with repeated use or when measuring different water types like pool versus aquarium.

Category contrast: This is worse than expected for mid‑range meters because buyers expect steady pH/TDS readings without frequent rechecks.

Does calibration or setup hide extra supplies and steps?

• Hidden need: Many buyers reported a need for calibration solution beyond what’s included, a recurring setup extra.
• Early sign: Readings change after travel or storage, indicating recalibration is often required before first use.
• Frequency tier: This is a primary issue for users expecting plug‑and‑test convenience.
• Impact: Extra calibration adds time and cost compared with single‑purpose meters.

Does the device feel fragile or fail sooner than expected?

• Common report: Multiple buyers note probe degradation or screen problems after moderate use.
• When it happens: Problems often show up within months of everyday pool or aquarium testing.
• Cause clue: Frequent wet/dry cycles and frequent handling make the issue more disruptive than typical wear.
• Repair attempts: Users tried recalibration and gentle cleaning, with limited improvement.
• Scope signal: Seen across written reviews and some hands‑on video checks, not just isolated cases.
• Category contrast: This product shows higher upkeep than most mid‑range multi‑meters, causing real replacement costs.

Is the interface and mode switching confusing or unreliable?

• Early sign: Buyers report accidental mode selection when testing, producing wrong units.
• Usage anchor: Confusion appears during rapid tests like pool servicing or aquarium water checks.
• Frequency tier: This is a secondary issue but more frustrating during routine maintenance.
• Impact: Mistaken ppm/ppt/% readings force extra testing time and rechecks.
• Fix attempts: Some users power‑cycled or removed batteries, with temporary fixes only.
• Hidden requirement: Users need to learn manual mode navigation or bring a separate meter to confirm.
• Category contrast: Simpler meters avoid this by offering fewer selectable modes, causing less friction.

Illustrative excerpts (not actual quotes)

"Readings jumped after a week of normal pool tests." — reflects a primary pattern.

"Had to buy calibration liquid before first accurate reading." — reflects a secondary pattern.

"Mode switched while dipping and I got percent not ppm." — reflects an edge‑case pattern.

Who should avoid this

• Pool professionals who need fast, repeatable results during long service sessions.
• Aquarium keepers who cannot tolerate reading drift for sensitive ecosystems.
• Buyers wanting plug‑and‑play who don’t want to buy calibration supplies or spend extra setup time.

Who this is actually good for

• Hobbyists who test occasionally and can tolerate extra calibration time.
• Budget users looking for multiple functions in one device and willing to cross‑check results.
• DIY tinkerers who will maintain and recalibrate devices regularly to extend life.

Expectation vs reality

• Expectation: Reasonable for this category — instant, stable pH and TDS readings.
• Reality: You may need frequent recalibration and confirmation with a second meter.
• Expectation: One device replaces separate pH, TDS, and salinity meters.
• Reality: Multipurpose design increases chance of mode errors during quick checks.

Safer alternatives

• Buy single‑function meters to eliminate mode mistakes and reduce recalibration frequency.
• Choose meters with replaceable probes if you want longer service life and cheaper repairs.
• Keep calibration solution on hand and test a second reference strip to confirm readings.
• Prefer meters with simple displays if you need fast pool servicing without rechecking units.

The bottom line

Main regret: Buyers most often report inconsistent readings and repeated recalibration that interrupt routine testing.

Why it matters: These problems make the device riskier than typical mid‑range meters for professionals and sensitive aquaria.

Verdict: Avoid if you need plug‑and‑play reliability; consider lower‑function, more stable meters instead.