Cycling Supplies

[Reefchef]

Good evening everyone, can you please assist on needed materials for cycling. I have met of my equipment, I just have to order some plumbing supplies and epoxy for rock work and I should be good for set up. I'm trying to catch some 4th of July sales! Thanks

1. Nitrate Test Kit - Brands?
2. Nitrie Test Kit - Brands?
3. Ammonia Test Kit - Brands?

 

[bhodges82]

I like salifert test kits, they are reliable and relatively inexpensive and easy to use.

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[Steve Burton]

I use API for ammonia and nitrites, there's nothing cheaper.

 

[ActiveAngel]

Yeah; I also prefer the API Saltwater test kit (or just buy their Ammonia and Nitrite individually) for cycling due to it being cheap and easy to use. The reason is that, after cycling, you’ll need these tests less and less often. I still hold onto mine, for whenever I start up new tanks, helping others, or if something dies or there is other suspicious activity. But with my old 30+ year established tank, ammonia and Nitrite always came up zero.

This big kit also comes with a pH test kit; which you can feel free to use, but I would recommend just ignore it for now. Chasing pH often leads to disaster with reef tanks, especially until you have a few seasons under your belt.

After you’re done cycling, you’ll still need to test Nitrate regularly. For this, I recommend making an additional purchase for a higher quality and higher precision kit. I use Red Sea Nitrate test kit so I can detect down to 0.25ppm changes, but it takes a couple minutes to test as there’s lots of steps... Salifert is good too, and I’ve also heard good things about NYOS Nitrate kit (but haven’t used them yet).

 

[ActiveAngel]

And because you’re cycling now; there is a new contest to win some salt that you may be interested in. Basically, i got some salt that I’m looking to give away to members of ARC. Feel free to shoot me any questions

Contest for new Aquarists and Reefers

 

[Tanster2]

API for nitrates/phosphates and calcium, Salifert for alkalinity.

Some people prefer the Red Sea test kit, but it's more expensive than API iirc.

If you have the money, Hanna Instruments makes digital devices that supposedly give accurate results. I've been wanting to get a set but they are pricier for sure.

 

[Reefchef]

Thank you guys, just ordered the api salt water kit from marine dept along with gate valve and ball valve.

Where is the best place to order 1inch tubing for my water station. Thanks

 

[camellia]

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