Salifert Ammonia Test Question

[j.falk]

When I use the test and it reads 0 should the vial be completely clear?

 

[mcgyvr]

Isn't the expected result range/colors right on the card?
Quick google images search shows that its clear = <.25 ppm

 

[j.falk]

I have yet to see a completely clear vial after adding the NH3 solution...yet I don't see any yellow tint to the color so I'm not sure if that is a 0 reading or not? I would assume water that is 100% ammonia free would be completely clear in the vial...like looking at a vial filled only with plain water.

My question is, does the cloudiness always indicate that ammonia is present or is it just the combination of the saltwater + NH3 solution that creates a cloudy appearance regardless and the reading is still 0 ammonia?

 

[j.falk]

Disregard. I found the answer with a Google search. The vial will always be cloudy regardless...it is never 100% clear.

 

[Dr. Reef]

There will always be some ammonia in any tank at any given time.
NH3 levels are not harmful till they reach 0.2 and up and at fatal at 0.5.
Most all kits in market are TAN (nh3+nh4)
Which means at pH 8.1-8.4 nh3 levels of 0.2 would show on TAN kits about 1.7 - 2ppm.
So I dont expect any hobby level test kit to show 100% clear 0 reading.

 

[j.falk]

So I dont expect any hobby level test kit to show 100% clear 0 reading.

That's what I've always thought as well but wasn't 100% sure since I hadn't used Salifert test kits before. Thank you!