Test kits

[ardsman]

As an embryonic reefer I made the mistake of buying API test kits, oh and I bought em' all! I was wondering if I could get a few pointers on what are the most accurate kits available or are there some electronics available?

 

[E46Twist]

IMO, API works fine for most things. I used it while cycling and it gave me different readings so its not total garbage. I am to the point where I know I don't need to check the nitrogen cycle, just look at corals, plus mine never even register anymore. For things like phosphate I use red sea which I recommend. You could look into the Hanna checkers for digital readout, but they are not not just stick and read.

 

[Rob6311]

Yeah API does work pretty good the only problem I've had with them is that their colors are pretty similar so sometimes it's kinda hard to distinguish the different shades, especially when it reeds inbetween numbers. But also in my experience API is also very easy to use and the directions are very easy to follow but that's just me

 

[billdogg]

I rely on Salifert for Ca, Alk, Mg, and PO4. They are very easy to use and give very repeatable results.

 

[DDon]

For ammonia and nitrite I use API since only need when cycling a tank, but don't rely on them for other parameters. For everything else I use a mix of salifert, Red Sea pro and hanna. Elos is another choice but I don't have any personal experience with them.

 

[ardsman]

thanks for the pointers.