NuggetHoarder,

A pool test kit will give you better information. The MIOX strips only test at one level. They are designed to be a go/no go answer only. The pool kit will tell you the level of chlorine.

Make sure you use distilled water for your test. In some places (here as an example) there is more chlorine in the tap water than required for a home pool.

You might also do a test sooner than 5 months. Try opening one, putting it in a capsule and testing it in a week. It may save you carrying it around for a longer time.

Respectfully,

Jerry