2 bad test kits?

[aerius007]

I tested my water with an API calcium test kit, the result was 520. I then used the same test kit to measure a fresh mix of instant ocean, result was 540.

I used a Red Sea calc kit on my tank, result 350. Tested the fresh mix of IO, result 320.

From what I read the fresh IO could be anywhere between 350-400.

The api test kit could be out of date, not sure. The red sea I just bought. Needless to say I have no idea what my calc level is.

 

[AD87]

I would ditch those test kits I would pick up a Salifert test kit. If you need someone to test your water I would find someone asap. let me know if you need any help.

 

[aerius007]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15103282#post15103282 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by speeddemonlsr
I would ditch those test kits I would pick up a Salifert test kit. If you need someone to test your water I would find someone asap. let me know if you need any help.

Salifert is what I usually use but I couldnt get my hands on one local. The red sea SEEMS identical to the salifert, same procedure and powder, but something must be different.

 

[AD87]

I really never had luck with the rea sea stuff. aquatic tech has salifert as well as salty critter.

 

[aerius007]

I love those stores, just driving a v8 3-4hr round trip is a bit much for a test kit. Now if Greg wouldve worked me a deal on those purple tilefish when I called I'd fill her up and get driving.

Thanks for the heads up though

 

[jddaniel]

If you're using the API kits, make sure you are measuring the water sample with a syringe. The line on the tube is inaccurate and will cause slightly higher readings.

 

[AD87]

What about ordering from premium aquatics, they ship same day and you will get it next day from ups. just order lots of supplies to cover shipping that is what I do.

 

[aerius007]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15103435#post15103435 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jddaniel
If you're using the API kits, make sure you are measuring the water sample with a syringe. The line on the tube is inaccurate and will cause slightly higher readings.

I dug them out of the trash and just did that. I have noticed that their 5ml is not 5ml, more like 4.5ish. When I did that test it came out to being 560, not the 520 I had before (this is with a fresh mix of IO which at the most has 400ppm). Im guessing thats because more water = more calcium. Back to the trash it goes.

 

[aerius007]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15103474#post15103474 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by speeddemonlsr
What about ordering from premium aquatics, they ship same day and you will get it next day from ups. just order lots of supplies to cover shipping that is what I do.

I think BRS has them and Im doing a group order so I will probably add one on. I really should buy a Pinpoint monitor, would pay for itself over time and be easier to use, as long as I dont drop it in the sump.

 

[AD87]

great idea!

 

[Akronviper]

If you need one quick Wet Pets had some 2 weeks ago. I got the last Mag but they still had a few Cal.