test kits

[ste6168]

alright so i think i am going to pick up some test kits, but wansnt sure which t get. This is for a pretty new reef system. I know i am going to get salifert, but there are so many, which would be the best to get in everyone opinions?

 

[wazo90925]

i bought seachem, but i find my self unsure on the readings sometimes. i was looking at the safilert but i went with seachem. wishin i went the other way, i've been hearing good things about safilert.

 

[ste6168]

so what kits did you buy... i was thinking of buying nitrite, nitrate, ammonia, calcium, alkalinity, pH, and phosphate.

would those kits be good to start oor should i get others also?

 

[wazo90925]

i bought the marine test kit w/ nitrite,nitrate,ph,alk & amoneia. i also bought the phosphate & calcium kits. and wow i feel like a freakin scientist with the calcium test.

 

[mg426]

seachem tests are a trip sometimes, but the ones I have used agreed pretty close to the Salifert ones. I think salifert are easier.

 

[CeeGee]

I would add magnesium to that list. Skip the ph test kit as they are inaccurate and get a pinpoint ph meter. When you order the meter get quite a few extra calibration fluid packets as it may take you a few tries to get it right.

Good luck.

 

[ste6168]

alright, thanks guys- right now i dont have the money to get a pH meter so do you think i should just not test pH until i do? I think i am going to get either a RK2 or another monitor in the near future so that would test pH.

Mike

 

[wazo90925]

always test PH

 

[ste6168]

any other opinions on pH??

 

[docmenace]

You gotta test ph, and yes you really need a ph meter. If you are just starting I would skip all the test kits and just get the ph meter for now. Also, should really get a refractometer before you get those test kits, if you don't already have one.

I would only get Ca, Alk, and Mag, kits really.

 

[docmenace]

Oh, get Salifert.... when you do.