Test Kits

[oscarslr]

What test kits are necessary to get started?? i want to use salifert test kits so is there like a starter pack they carry???????

 

[bertoni]

For initial startup, ammonia and nitrate test kits are useful. I use a pH meter, but pH is important as well. If the tank is going to have corals or coralline algae, alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium are useful to test. Phosphate test kits can be useful for stony coral tanks.

This article covers all the water parameters:

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-05/rhf/index.php

It discusses which tests are critical and why.

 

[AquaReeferMan]

I dont think sailfert sells a starter pack. They are all individuals.
IMO you will need the following:
Ammonia
Nitrite
Nitrate
Ph
Phosphate
then later on you might need these:
Calcium
Alkalinity
Magnesium
Copper

 

[dareefking]

I think if your just setting a tank up you should be akay using API, although if $$ is no object, Sailfert is the way to go. Just a little to pricey for me and they are more complicating to use. I will switch one day to Sailfert but right now I like my money and my API gives a pretty accurate reading.

I guess I feel with the API I can tell what adjustments need to be made as far as nitrates, pH, Ca, etc.