Easy & Accurate Calcium Test Kit?

[tikireefer]

I just finished testing the calcium level on my tank and I feel like I need to have a smoke......totally frustrated and confused!!

What is a good calcium test kit that is easy and accurate and doesn't leave you feeling more confused and frustrated after the test???

I am using the "SeaTest" Kit (by Aquarium Systems, Manufacturer of Instant Ocean)

This test requires that you mix a sample of your tank water with a Calcium reagent #1, then add a packet of purple powder that turns the solution bright purple.

Then you add calcium regiment #3 drop by drop while stirring between drops until the sample water turns "true blue"

Then multiply the number of drops by 15, and you have your calcium if you did it all right and if your idea of "true blue" is the same as the manufactures’..........

There has to be a better way.......what test kits are you guys using for calcium?

 

[eep013]

I like the Salifert and Elos kits. Both are pretty easy to use. The Elos kit requires you to do two tests in order to get a specific reading, but the color change is dramatic (there's no question when the color changes). With the Salifert kit you only have to test once, but the color change from pink to purple is more gradual (can leave the results open to interpretation).

Hope this helps.

 

[mystery_reef]

api is simple

 

[Brian1980]

sailfert

 

[david13579]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14670145#post14670145 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Brian1980
sailfert

Salifert +1

 

[tikireefer]

Thanks......I'll have to check out the Salifert test kits......

 

[DragonFish]

I have the Salifert CA and Alk, and I hate them. I feel like I need to be chemist to use them. I've only used them each twice, want to buy mine?

edit~ My bad, mine are Seachem and they suck.

 

[david13579]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14672162#post14672162 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by DragonFish
I have the Salifert CA and Alk, and I hate them. I feel like I need to be chemist to use them. I've only used them each twice, want to buy mine?

edit~ My bad, mine are Seachem and they suck.

how much?

 

[tikireefer]

I don't mind "feeling like a chemist" when doing the calcium test. I am sure that all the test kits out right now require some effort and a few steps will be involved. My concern is getting a "fuzzy" reading at the end of the test. I want a test kit that gives me a solid number that is not open to interpretation. Hopefully the Salifert test will fit the bill. I plan on picking up a Salifert kit this week sometime.