test kits

[salth20newbie]

Ok, looking into getting new test materials for my SW tank. I currently have the tests where you compare the water to a card to check parameters. Anyone have any suggestions on water testing kits they prefer?

 

[Sisterlimonpot]

I'm all about simplicity and API test kits are cheap and work for most of the reefers on this board.

 

[cloak]

I've never had any problems with the Tetra test kits. (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, ph, KH) I use the API for calcium. Magnesium, I don't really test for that. As long as I can keep my KH in line, everything else seems to fall into place with regular water changes.

 

[Dustin1300]

I typically use API test kits for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and PH. I use Salifert kits for Mag, Calcium, Alk, and Phosphate.

 

[airwaybill]

API for amm, nitrite, nitrate, ph

Salifert alk

seachem mag, calcium

 

[James404]

API for amm, nitrite, nitrate, ph

Salifert alk

seachem mag, calcium

+1, I found API to be a little inconsistent when measuring alk, I was having to do 3-4 tests every time. I have found salifert alk to be much more accurate. I plan on ordering the Hanna Alk checker in a few weeks when it is released.

For the Amm, nitrite and nitrate I think API is more than sufficient.

PH I use the probe on my controller.

 

[Dustin1300]

I'd use the controller for the PH too but should always make sure it is calibrated from time to time. I just want an RK Elite so bad

 

[Tony78]

I just switched from Hagen to API. The API are cheap and much easier to read compared to Hagen. The other brand I hear everyone rave about is salifert, but I have no experience with that brand myself

 

[aquaman05]

wheres the best place to getthe api test kits

 

[Dustin1300]

I just switched from Hagen to API. The API are cheap and much easier to read compared to Hagen. The other brand I hear everyone rave about is salifert, but I have no experience with that brand myself

Salifert will cost you just as much for one elements test compared to an API which test a lot of tests. They typically give you much more granular results and this is typically why some of us use it for more important elements. It also will take much longer to test for each element but is more accurate in the end. :thumbsup:

 

[Dustin1300]

wheres the best place to getthe api test kits

I pick mine up at Pet Smart.

 

[Tony78]

Salifert will cost you just as much for one elements test compared to an API which test a lot of tests. They typically give you much more granular results and this is typically why some of us use it for more important elements. It also will take much longer to test for each element but is more accurate in the end. :thumbsup:

Good to know. Thanks.