Test kit poll

[Coleus]

I am getting hard time to figure out what test kits to use because i have been used couple test kits and their result are varies from branch to branch. For example. I used IO to test my ph and it says 8.2 but my API test says it is 7.8, same for nitrate, IO says it is < 10 but API says it is 20

It is a huge differences, I know that these test kits are not very accurate but what is the best test kits our there for the money? Please vote and explain

[whatcaneyedo]

pH is a tough one for test kits. Why not just use a pH monitor or controller? Theres a used one for sale used right now: http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/sho...hlight=monitor

There are things I dont like about all of the test kits available to hobbyists. I've yet to see a study done that compares them for accuracy against lab grade testing solutions/equipment so I dont think there is a 'best'.

[Coleus]

Originally Posted by whatcaneyedo

pH is a tough one for test kits. Why not just use a pH monitor or controller? Theres a used one for sale used right now: http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/sho...hlight=monitor

There are things I dont like about all of the test kits available to hobbiests. I've yet to see a study done that compares them for accuacy againts lab grade testing solutions/equipment so I dont think there is a 'best'.

Well I have neptune ph monitor probe and it record 7.7 :-(. Ok, I just test my ph with all test kits i have and here is the result my Salifert ph test say 8.2, api ph test say 8.4 and IO test says 8.2

This is driving me nuts. Ether i got a broken ph probe or all my test kits are junk. Your thoughts? Btw, is it true that you have to replace ph probe after one year usage?

[whatcaneyedo]

When was the last time you calibrated your pH probe? After 3 months I find mine can easily be out by .2 When they're out by even more than that I replace them which is probably between 1-2 years. I buy standard probes and not Lab grade and that also shortens their usable lifespan.

[Coleus]

Originally Posted by whatcaneyedo

When was the last time you calibrated your pH probe? After 3 months I find mine can easily be out by .2 When they're out by even more than that I replace them which is probably between 1-2 years. I buy standard probes and not Lab grade and that also shortens their usable lifespan.

I calibrated it last month. I will calibrate it again and see.