API test kit from 5 years ago

[Kain]

I have an API test kit thats been sitting in my garage from 5 years ago. Is it still safe to use to test my water?

 

[thegrun]

Most likely no. Most test kits have a 1-3 year shelf life. One of the things I dislike about API is that they do not mark the expiration dates on their test kits. They do have lot numbers which you could submit to them and they could give you an expiration date.

 

[jerrym21]

I just threw out an API Nitrate test kit today. It was around three years old. I have been using Salifert for nitrate for quite some time and came across the old API kit. Salifert still reads zero. Old API read 10. I then tested my 0 TDS RO/DI water with both and had the same results. I threw out the API figuring it was old and compromised.

 

[KillerReef]

toss it

 

[Game Over]

Yes throw it away

 

[Kain]

Will do. Thanks guys.