water testing

[jimbo78]

its time to get a new test kit, what are some of the more accurate brands? i've noticed people seem to think some brands are better than others. i want something good but don't want to break the bank.
thanks
p.s. i want a reef test kit.

 

[marybeth1975]

I personally use the Saltwater Master Liquid test kit made by aquarium pharmaceuticals, Inc. I got at my local fish store. I have had good results with it, and its not too expensive.

 

[sanababit]

ditto

sana

 

[danielmanlee]

Me too API works for me

 

[old salty]

It's rather difficult to say one test kit is accurate over another. The cost of proper laboratory testing is far beyond what any hobbyist is willing to pay. I have access to this equipment, but it requires time (money) to set the tests up properly.

Since nobody can back up any claims of accuracy of test kits, the next best thing would be repeatable results. This does nothing for accuracy, just ensures that the results of back to back tests are close to each other. For this very reason, test kits should be used more as indicators than for absolute numbers.

I have had success with Lamotte, Elos, Salifert, and even Tetra (for FW) with regards to repeatable results.

 

[Frick-n-Frags]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10243631#post10243631 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by old salty
It's rather difficult to say one test kit is accurate over another. The cost of proper laboratory testing is far beyond what any hobbyist is willing to pay. I have access to this equipment, but it requires time (money) to set the tests up properly.

Since nobody can back up any claims of accuracy of test kits, the next best thing would be repeatable results. This does nothing for accuracy, just ensures that the results of back to back tests are close to each other. For this very reason, test kits should be used more as indicators than for absolute numbers.

I have had success with Lamotte, Elos, Salifert, and even Tetra (for FW) with regards to repeatable results.

that's why, to me, the use of calibration solutions like for alk, pH, SG, temp(well, use a precise thermometer as a calibrator) and Ca that I know of, really are key in getting an accurate reading out of any measurement technique that is repeatable.

the other ones are easy too, when nothing registers, you are at the right level (PO4 etc )

anything else, you don't need.