Anyone else use the Red Sea Refractometer?

[Vorog]

I am getting low readings of salinity around 1.021. I calibrate it with RO water. And also I have 1.025 calibration solution that I keep in a air tight bag. I haven't had much trouble with this refractometer, however lately I have noticed my tank is around 1.021. I like to keep it around 1.024. I topped it off with a little bit fresh made saltwater to see if it brings the salinity back up. and it doesn't move past 1.021. So now I am wondering if the refractometer is not showing an accurate reading. Also I check my 1.025 solution and it reads 1.022.... :headwally:

 

[Kalen]

I have been using the red sea refractrometer for 4 months now. I've never had any problems with mine. Whenever I have a question about my sg I take mine to double check it to make sure it's calibrated properly.

The calibration solution can go bad if not sealed tightly after each use. So it is possible that the solution is bad, however that does not explain why the refractrometer is not reading properly with r.o. water when you calibrate with the r.o.

You are topping off properly. Depending how much saltwater your adding as top off water it may not raise your sg that much. It may take a few days to raise your sg.

The other theory could be that the refractrometer is defective.

I would definitely get it checked out for a second opinion by your lfs

 

[CuzzA]

To calibrate it properly the refractometer should be 77F.

 

[Vorog]

The calibration solution can go bad if not sealed tightly after each use. So it is possible that the solution is bad, however that does not explain why the refractrometer is not reading properly with r.o. water when you calibrate with the r.o.

You are topping off properly. Depending how much saltwater your adding as top off water it may not raise your sg that much. It may take a few days to raise your sg.

I should have mentioned that when I topped off the tank with saltwater, I checked the salinity about 12 hours later before I left for work.

Also the salinity solution is in an air tight bag, always has been.

I have read that the refractometer is degree dependant...My tank temps are always around 77-78 degrees.

 

[robthorn]

I have one for sale if anyone wants one. Only used a couple times. $45

 

[Kalen]

I should have mentioned that when I topped off the tank with saltwater, I checked the salinity about 12 hours later before I left for work.

Also the salinity solution is in an air tight bag, always has been.

I have read that the refractometer is degree dependant...My tank temps are always around 77-78 degrees.

You may need a new refractrometer. Sounds defective.

You could also contact red sea and see what they say or could possibly suggest to you