Reading API Nitrate Easier, Quick Tip

[Jdack]

So one thing that i had trouble in the beginning with was reading the api test kits. Now, i have red sea for most, and salifert for the rest.

But honestly, most new reefers will prob get the api saltwater master kit, for expense reasons, and api is always at big box stores.

The easy way to read nitrates=

Fill a second test tube with just the color agent ( Nitrate bottle #1)
and compare. Before i started doing this, I thought i was at 0 ppm on nitrates, when in all reality i was around 5.

Just a quick FYI till you end up going to other test kits

This prob has been mentioned before, etc, and most will prob think of it.

 

[ReeferNoob4ever]

I use api for my params, but salifert for dissolved oxygen. I'm mostly looking for noticeable changes in the outcome of the test. So long as everything looks good I just make sure it's consistent. I even use api to test phosphate. I do admit, api tests leave some room for interpretation. The best way to stay consistent is to use a stop watch when time is involved for the result. And of course always rinse everything out, let it dry, and never accidently swap the lids on two part tests.

I bet some of you pros don't even test unless something looks strange.

 

[homer1475]

I test every 10 days just to make sure things are in line. My parameters are usually never out of wack.

I use salifert for ALK, CA, and MAG. Red Sea for nitrates and phosphates. Takes 10 minutes to run all 5 tests.

I do have an API FW master kit test for my freshwater tanks. I'll use the ammonia and nitrate kits on occasion if something doesn't look right. Typically the API kit is "in the ballpark" with the RedSea kits.

FWIW....
FW and SW tests are the same for API, just the color cards are different.

 

[d0ughb0y]

I use API only and only test for alk, CA and nitrate. I simplified reading the nitrate color even further by only considering if the color is 0 or close to 0. Any other color means I have too much nitrate and double up my water change.

This is the target color I get. A person has to be blind or color blind to not be able to read that color.

 

[Dealseer]

I didn't realize API testing needed to be made easier.

 

[ReeferNoob4ever]

HAHA Zing!

 

[d0ughb0y]

people tend to have difficulty distinguishing colors starting at a little below 5 and higher for nitrate test. if all you care about is 0 or close to 0, then it becomes really simple.

The OP tip is a good tip, more so if you lost your color card.