Hydrometer calibration

[willie1983]

I'm new to saltwater so I went the cheaper route a purchased a hydrometer and according to the directions and filled it with saltwater for 24hrs.So I visited my lfs with a sample to get it tested and there readings were way different than mines so he checked it with his refractomer for a more accurate reading and the results were around the same can anyone help me out I have a coral life hydrometer

Also I have a api test kit and my nitrates read totally different than his

 

[sn4k33y3z]

I think a lot of people will tell you to toss the hydrometer and get a refractormeter for the vary same reason. However, I will say I have to calibrate my refractometer all the time.

 

[brandonmason]

Ok the problem with hydrometers is that after a few uses they start getting clogged up so to speak from the salt, which will cause reading to be different. Also if it is dropped it can cause it not to read properly. Its better to go ahead and fork out the $50 for a refractometer and save yourself the headache. They only need calibrated and the calibration fluid is like $12 and it should last you forever if properly cared for. You can even pick up used refrac. for $25.

Next API test kits are exactly what you get... cheap. They will often show that you have ammonia in the tank... Should just step up and get a red sea kit or a sea chem kit and not worry about it.

 

[willie1983]

BrandonMason;899055 wrote: Ok the problem with hydrometers is that after a few uses they start getting clogged up so to speak from the salt, which will cause reading to be different. Also if it is dropped it can cause it not to read properly. Its better to go ahead and fork out the $50 for a refractometer and save yourself the headache. They only need calibrated and the calibration fluid is like $12 and it should last you forever if properly cared for. You can even pick up used refrac. for $25.

Next API test kits are exactly what you get... cheap. They will often show that you have ammonia in the tank... Should just step up and get a red sea kit or a sea chem kit and not worry about it.

Yeah I was looking in the dr fosters book for one thanks for the help

 

[grouper therapy]

I've used a hydrometer for years with no problems. I did take care of them and kept them rinsed well with ro water. I actually had a refractometer on the shelf but hated calibrating the thing.

 

[willie1983]

grouper therapy;899090 wrote: I've used a hydrometer for years with no problems. I did take care of them and kept them rinsed well with ro water. I actually had a refractometer on the shelf but hated calibrating the thing.

What brand?

 

[grouper therapy]

instant ocean I'm not saying that a refractometer is not a good idea but used and not calibrated properly is less reliable than a hydrometer IMO. While a certain level of stability is needed I never maintained the ultra tight tolerances in regards temp and salinity that some have been led to believe is an absolute for success in this hobby. Conditions change fairly regular(hourly at times) on the reefs , especially the shallow ones. My temps varied some days 2-3 degrees no visible issues. My salinity varied .002(calibrated refrac) from time to time no visible issues.
I did try to hold a stable alk level.

 

[kirkwood]

If you mix out a new batch of salt water to the exact measurements specified in the instructions you will know exactly what your salinity reading should be. Then measure with your hydrometer. At that point you will then know how far off your hydrometer reading is. I'd assume at that point it will always be off by the same margin so you can adjust accordingly.

 

[rdnelson]

I believe there is a much higher risk of false readings with a hydrometer. Calibrating a refractometer only takes a second.

But.....as Dave said, it isn't the end of the world if your SG varies slightly. But what I would say is that whatever you use, measure the water in the tank and then mix the new water to match. If you feel it is low go a bit higher on the new water and if you feel it is high go low on the new water.


I am going on a cruise.....on my lawnmower around my yard.

 

[willie1983]

Thanks for the info fellas I see I have somemore investing, and lots more to learn

 

[rdnelson]

WILLIE1983;899154 wrote: Thanks for the info fellas I see I have somemore investing, and lots more to learn

I would copy that to your desktop because you will be saying that for the next 10-15 years!!! LOL



I am going on a cruise.....on my lawnmower around my yard.

 

[willie1983]

rdnelson99;899155 wrote: I would copy that to your desktop because you will be saying that for the next 10-15 years!!! LOL



I am going on a cruise.....on my lawnmower around my yard.

Yeah my wife already naggin, she'll be ok until I get everthing established

 

[ringo®]

Hyrdrometer is just alot quicker. I check it against my refractometer a few times a year. 1.022 on my Hydrometer = 1.025 on my refractometer