ALK Test Kit Problems

[CSS Reef]

I want to run my ALK on the low end between 7.5-9 dKH.

I have been dialing in my calcium reactor for 2 weeks now and knowing that Salifert test kits have been testing on the high side, I have been running constant 10.9 DKH estimating Salifert about 1.5dKH high (9.4 dKH). I purchased an API kit for reference and it shows that my ALK is approximately somewhere between 8-9 DKH, confirming the Salifert is testing a bit high.

Now I purchased LaMotte as I hear it much more consistent and test out at approximately 8.3 dKH. I am having trouble comparing colors but this is my best guess.


Can the Salifet kit be 2.6 dKH high? Do most feel that the Lamotte kits are pretty accurate? Any tips on reading the color chart? Do you set it on top or comapre from the side on the Lamotte? I know if you go too far it turns red, but it is hard to figure out the exact point where it matches the chart????

I am spending too much on ALK kits when I could be buying frags!
So far all I know id my tank runs between 8.3-10.9 dKH. This sucks....

 

[LobsterOfJustice]

I agree that it is hard to match the color of the lamotte kit. The whole reason I like titration kits is that there is no guessing at color matching. That said, yes it is entirely possible and likely that your salifert kit is reading that high. I prefer the salifert kits if they are working properly, but in this case go with the lamotte. I will be going with API next time, many have reported that they are accurate and they are much cheaper.

 

[barjam]

This is a known issue with Salifert test kits and I would not trust them (the alk one anyhow) check out their vendor forums.

For the past two weeks I knew the salifert kits were off so I just bumped my ALK up to 11 (acording to the salifert kit). Today I went out to get an API kit and sure enough, it read 8-9.

Oh as a side note it appears that only certain batches are affected, mine was one of those... apparently you can get a reference solution sent to you or something along those lines, seemed like a hassle.

 

[CSS Reef]

Thanks for the response. The problem with the API is that it is only accurate to whole numbers. No decimals...

I guess Ill note the value shown at the time it turns purple and the time it turns red and take the middle number. Thanks

I love the ease and simplicty of the Salifert wish it was more accurate.