Testing...1....2....3

[DrGonzo]

I just completed a series of tests over the last two nights. I tested KH, Mg, and Ca. I used three different manufacturer's kits for each type of test. It's been very frustrating how all over the map the results have been. The KH tests were the only ones that seemed reasonable. I re-ran tests that seemed really off. Here are the results by type and manufacturer:

KH
Sera = 7 dKH
Elos = 7.5 dKH
Salifert = 7.7 dKh

Mg
Sera = 1920 mg/l, 1560 mg/l
Elos = 800 mg/l
Red Sea = 400 mg/l, 500 mg/l

Ca
Sera = 600 mg/l, 600 mg/l
Elos = 750 mg/l, 650 mg/l, 650 mg/l
Salifert = 500 mg/l, 480 mg/l

The Sera test kits were brand new, while the others I've had for a few months. I'd like to hear what others' experiences have been like. It also would great if we can find a consensus what test kits are the best for each type of test. For example Sera has the best Ca test, while Elos has the best Mg test.

It also would be interesting to hear what your praises and/or complaints about particular tests are. I for instance hate how unclear some of the Elos syringes are. The bottom of the plunger is convex. Also the spoons on the Sera tests are very difficult to level the powder regents.

I'm thinking a poll may be the best bet after we have some discussion.

 

[skimmerman100]

i test with salifert and api

 

[DrGonzo]

i test with salifert and api

How have the API been? What kind of tests do you usually run?

 

[Alex]

I've used Salifert, API, Sera and tropic marin for a combination of tests.

Currently i use:
API- Ammo, Nitrate and nitrite -- I perform these often, at least once a week or biweekly.
SERA - NItrate, Nitrite and Calcium- I have them left over, LFS carries them but is switching to API.
Hanna meter-- Phosphate every week or more depending on conditions, great meter.
Tropic Marin -- Calcium/Mg combo- do this weekly but will be doing biweekly, tank has been up for three months and still keeping tabs on these. very easy test and accurate.

I've wanted to try Elos but they are not as easily found and my LFS and I find myself going there often. Aquatic Obsessions in NJ. Nice little store.

 

[DrGonzo]

Tropic Marin -- Calcium/Mg combo- do this weekly but will be doing biweekly, tank has been up for three months and still keeping tabs on these. very easy test and accurate.

I've got to give that a shot.

 

[Alex]

I've got to give that a shot.

Its like the other tests,has 3 parts for calcium and then an Mg reagent as a last result. works pretty good.

 

[DrGonzo]

Any other thoughts?