ALK test

[drjett]

Hello everyone,

I am looking to get some input on what I have been seeing.

So I new-ish to keeping reefs and have been trying different hobbyist "brands" out to see what I like and do not like.

So I have used both the SeaChem and the Red Sea alkalinity test. They do not produce the same results. What I have seen is that the Red Sea results will be 1.5 - 2 dKH less than the results from the SeaChem test.

My first impression of the test is that the RedSea seems to be more accurate given the method in which the test allows for more granular results. While the SeaChem test is quick, it appears to be over simplified (count drops, divide by 2, multiply by 2.8).

I would like to know if others in our community have noticed the same thing or what most prefer to use as their Alk testing.

Thanks in advance. :thanks:

 

[heathlindner25]

look up the Red Sea test kit on YouTube, a lot of people do it incorrectly. when you fill the syringe you need to stop the stopper at 1ml and there needs to be an air bubble which accounts for the tip. the liquid in the syringe need to start at. 0.85, if that makes any sense.

 

[drjett]

heathlindner25;938316 wrote: look up the Red Sea test kit on YouTube, a lot of people do it incorrectly. when you fill the syringe you need to stop the stopper at 1ml and there needs to be an air bubble which accounts for the tip. the liquid in the syringe need to start at. 0.85, if that makes any sense.

Yes, it does make sense. I have seen the YouTube videos. I looked them up b/c I assumed that I was doing it incorrectly. But as it turns out I was correctly executing the test.

Thanks for the input.


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[heathlindner25]

looks like it's time to get us 3rd test kit and see which one is right...lol

 

[drjett]

Yea that is a good idea. Any suggestions?


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[heathlindner25]

Elos and salifert are both quality test kits

 

[jonathan]

I am having good luck with the Hanna Alk checker.

 

[jennm]

I'm a fan of Seachem. If you're in doubt about the accuracy, test a sample of the reference solution. It has a known value and you can calibrate your test that way. Any issues, call Seachem and they'll troubleshoot for you and/or replace the reagent if that is deemed to be the problem.

Jenn

 

[drjett]

Thanks Jenn, another great point. I will give that a shot also.

 

[tbub1221]

I say Consistentsy and stability are the keys to coral growth.
Once you find a test you like stick with it , so long as you maintain alk at a healthy lvl the coral will acclimate and adjust to the water chemistry .
Chasing slight variations in test kits is something I did a bit myself and I find there usually most all within a close proximity of one another , the difference was not so severe with any that i have used that if I maintain my DKH @ 9.6-10.6 that even if the difference was on the extreme end I would still be operating at a healthy alkalinity
Which is why I say consistently and stability
But that's just my 2 cent's

 

[ralph atl]

heathlindner25;938346 wrote: Elos and salifert are both quality test kits

:yay: