PH probe, cleaning, and life

[Gools]

How do I clean my PH probe? Is Vinegar safe to use on them? I have a little build up of calcium in the probes teeth. I also want to know how long these probes last. I have had it running since Aug/2004. I still reads good, I calibrate it every month, and it's usually dead on, but wanted to know if they are like light bulbs, and that they should be changed on a schedule.

[christyf5]

I just used a vinegar solution to clean mine, melts the stuff right off

[Psyire]

From what I've read probes should be used no longer than 2 years, and that's if you have them on a strict cleaning schedule. (less if you don't) Now ofcourse I wouldn't change them if they are still reading correctly. (assuming you have something you can reference them to) I would also have to say that's it seems logical that cheaper probes would not last as long as well designed, more expensive ones. (however this might not be the case)

[Psyire]

A Q-Tip works well for cleaning probes, I normally clean mine once a week with a Q-Tip (dipped in the tank first) and once a month with a Q-Tip dipped in a vinegar solution.

[Salinity Now]

I just use a toothbrush. Leaves the probe sparkling clean. 4 out of 5 reefers recommend them.