Testing for Phosphates

[Znut Reefer]

What test kit are you all using to test your P04 levels?

 

[Billybeau1]

I use the Salifert.

 

[F35-Joint Strike Fighter]

Hana here.

 

[Lobster]

Salifert, but I think its totally worthless in really nutrient-poor systems. I have never gotten a reading from it in my tank, as its not senstive enough.

I was considering ordering a Hach PO-19 kit. Colorimeters are just too pricey.

 

[Orochimaru]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8437784#post8437784 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by F18-Hornet
Hana here.

does it mean the phosphate standards I've made for you to check the accuracy of the hana works?

 

[MSHUR]

hanna photometer here

 

[rutz81]

D&D Low-Level Phosphate Test Kit(deltec)

 

[Billybeau1]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8437811#post8437811 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Lobster
Salifert, but I think its totally worthless in really nutrient-poor systems. I have never gotten a reading from it in my tank, as its not senstive enough.

I was considering ordering a Hach PO-19 kit. Colorimeters are just too pricey.

I'm not really sure I understand that. I've detected as low as .01 on my Salifert kit. I find it pretty easy to use. When I test my make up water, the vial is clear (no blue at all). When I test my tank I get a slight hind of blue which matches the color chart.

Randy will tell you the Hach PO-19 does not detect levels below .03 very well.

 

[kslick]

Milwaukee martini

 

[Justin/TiV]

I read something recently that says you can have phosphates and read zero cause the corals are using it...so it's getting "eaten" and reads zero out of the water columb

 

[Billybeau1]

That is certainly possible. In my tank, the algae uses it up as fast as I put it in. (Food)

 

[Znut Reefer]

I just tested using a Hach P019. And it is hard to detect below 0.03. Seems my level is closer to 0.04

I had expected my levels to be higher, but glad they weren't. Guess no need to run a Phos Remover at this point?

 

[Billybeau1]

If algae is not a problem, no need to worry about PO4.

 

[Znut Reefer]

I don't have very much algae, just a few small patches here and there. But nothing that can't be removed with a water change.

 

[Billybeau1]

Cool.

If you ever have any questions about the Hach PO-19, slide into the chemistry forum. That is what Randy uses and he is very familial with it. :thumbsup:

 

[Znut Reefer]

Thanks Billybeau. I have a thread in the chemistry forum now talking to Randy about my reading.

Wished I'd known levels were this low, could have saved my $$ on the kit.

But at least it's good to know.