Test Kits
 

Stephane,

For the most part I agree with what you have said.

The thing is when it is someone new to the hobby I will and always recommend them to test for Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate and pH to start. Once they feel they are comfortable with how those go and interact with each other they can lessen the amount of testing. If they don't tho they won't get an idea once they do have corals in a tank what the different changes in how a tank looks actually means.

In time an experienced reefer can sit back and just look at the tank and get a feel for how it is doing. I know I have my signal corals that tell me what is going on. But you have to remember with someone new they need to learn these things.. It doesn't come magically. [img]smile.gif[/img] Tho to some of us it seems like it.. ;)

Give it time Jeanna.. [img]smile.gif[/img] start testing and recording everything you see. keep an eye on what happens with the numbers you see. [img]smile.gif[/img]

Test Kits
 

I also would test for ammonia, then nitrite on a new tank. I would not bother with nitrate though. If one has a sandbed or lots of rock, as mentioned by Stephane, then its never going to be a problem, unless the tank is over stocked.

I use Salifert calcium test. Found it to be the best. Now using the Salifert alk test and am impressed with it. My last one was LaMotte. Very good. But, the one I like best is a good ole FasTest alk test. Its cheap and does the job. Same readings as my LaMotte. BUT WHERE DO YOU FUND THEM ANYMORE. :D I also use Salifert to measure my magnesium levels, which I use to add on a regular basis. Found no need when running a reactor. Stayed at 1300ppm.

As most, I also use a Pinpoint PH meter. 3rd one now. Broke one and dropped another in the tank. :eek:

Test kits I threw in the garbage
- nitrate kit.
-phosphate kit.
-any ph kit.
-several major brands calcium kits.