Description
The PHP Rapid Inhibitor Test kit provides a rapid on-site analysis of the concentration of all molybdate based inhibitors, including Fernox, Sentinel and Adey used in central heating system water.
The test kit provides a fast, easy to use test strip with an online reporting form to establish the presence and concentration level of inhibitor within the system. Testing the concentration of inhibitor allows compliance with BS 7593:2019, the Benchmark scheme, and may be required for compliance with boiler manufacturer’s warranties. The PHP Rapid Inhibitor Test Report is free and can be accessed from any internet enabled phone, tablet or computer device and can provide a PDF report certificate as verification for compliance. This is emailed to you once the simple form is completed and submitted, confirming a pass or fail, showing the result of the test strip against the colour chart.
In the event of a fail, more molybdate inhibitor can be added into the system. The heating system should then be run hot for a minimum of 15 minutes before you can then retest with a new strip. A pass certificate would mean the system does not require any more inhibitor and would be required to re-test in 12 months to comply with BS 7593:2019.
Please note PHP are the only provider of the test form which can be used on any device which is internet enabled to submit the reporting form. The emailed PDF report can then be emailed to the customer or printed and left with the boiler benchmark paperwork.
- Quick and simple on-site testing of inhibitor concentration
- Simple online form that can be used on any internet enabled mobile, tablet or desktop device
- PDF report certifying pass or fail
- Allows compliance with BS 7593:2019, the Benchmark scheme and helps comply with manufacturer warranty
- Suitable for testing all heating systems using molybdate-based inhibitors
- Cost effective way of checking system inhibitor levels
- Available in convenient pack sizes of 3, 6, 25 and 50 test strips for home users or engineers
How to use the PHP Rapid Inhibitor Strip System
- Drain a small sample of system water from a radiator into a small container.
- Dip the test strip into the sample water for 1 second and remove.
- Shake off excess liquid.
- Compare to colour chart on the label within 10 seconds.
- Molybdate level should be 100ppm or more.
- If test strip shows less than 100ppm, add more inhibitor and run the central heating system for 15 minutes on hot. Then repeat test with new strip.
- Scan the QR code below and complete the form. Your results will then be emailed to you.
*Only suitable to work with Molybdate based inhibitors.
Package, Handling & Safety
The test kits are supplied in pack sizes of 3, 6, 25 and 50 strips. The test strips are non-hazardous, but should be kept out of reach of children and animals to avoid being swallowed.
Data Protection & Data Handling
Please note that all reports will be saved for a period of 12 months, after which they will be deleted automatically. Copies of reports can be resent providing you know the email address or the report ID that is on the report of original email. Please note we can only resend the report to the email that was used when the form was submitted. Please refer to our Data Protection Policy for more information.
FAQs
What is the PHP Rapid Inhibitor Test?
It is an easy to use dip strip that tests central heating systems for the correct concentration of inhibitor, to ensure that the system is fully protected, which helps prevent sludge and debris forming and building up.
Where can I buy the PHP Rapid Inhibitor Test?
The PHP Rapid Inhibitor Test kit is available directly from our website, Amazon, eBay and at selected merchants and online plumbing retailers.
How can I keep a record of the pass / fail for each job?
It’s easy to keep track of test results with the free PHP Rapid Inhibitor Test reporting form, which users can use to manage and evidence each test. The form allows for a picture to be taken or uploaded of the test strip and select its colour to generate the pass or fail result. Using this process will auto-generate a PDF certificate with the result to your email address and this acts as evidence that the test has been completed and the system is fully protected. Should the original email be lost, the report can be resent free of charge, and is securely stored for 12 months from submission. Simply get in touch with us quoting your email and/or test reference. If a test fails, users can also demonstrate that action has been taken and the system subsequently re-tested to receive a positive result.
After adding inhibitor to the system how long should I wait before re-testing the system water?
With the initial dose, its key to make sure the system water is circulated properly so that the inhibitor is sufficiently mixed. PHP recommends that you turn on the central heating to allow the inhibitor to circulate through the system for a minimum of 15 minutes.
What products can I use to re-dose the system?
If the dip test shows less than 100ppm, users can immediately resolve the issue by adding any high-quality molybdate inhibitor such as Fernox, Sentinel or Adey. The test can be re-taken once the inhibitor has circulated to confirm the level has been met.
How quick is the test?
The results are instant!
Does the PHP Rapid Inhibitor Test check for all inhibitors?
Yes! the PHP Rapid Inhibitor Test kit is a universal test that will check for the presence of all molybdate based inhibitors within the system water. To ensure compatibility please ensure the inhibitor used is molybdate based, otherwise no reaction will occur with the test strip. We recommend Sentinel, ADEY and Fernox inhibitor.
How does it work?
Simply dip the test strip into the system water and it will instantly change colour. By comparing the test strip to the colour chart on the label, users can assess whether the system water includes the correct concentration of inhibitor. A fully protected system will have inhibitor levels of 100ppm or above – and will pass the test. However, if the test fails and a result of less than 100ppm is received, the system should be re-dosed.
Why do I need to test system water?
A requirement under BS 7593:2019 is that central heating systems are tested annually, to help maintain system health and to identify and rectify any issues before they cause damage to the system. The Benchmark Commissioning Checklist further supports this practice to evidence the correct servicing and installation of boilers. The onsite PHP Rapid Inhibitor Test makes compliance with these industry standards easy.
Do I still need to perform a laboratory test?
BS 7593:2019 recommends that the inhibitor should either be re-dosed at 5-year intervals or, a more comprehensive laboratory test is conducted every five years to provide a more in-depth analysis, and where needed, establish targeted action to resolve issues and restore system efficiency.



Tony –
I’ve used the radiator agitator from the same people and it’s a great addition for sorting cold spots on radiators. Used this inhibitor test kit for a few weeks. Definitely working out cheaper and easier than Fernox as you can do it quickly from the link.