Test kit hell

[jrosenblum]

I just purchased a new Salifert CA test kit. Four trials with this test kit indicated my Ca was 450 (460, 450,450,450).

I have been using API test kits which indicate, over repeated trials, a Ca of 400.

So, which one do I trust?

I have a 55 gallon tank with a clam and about a dozen corals (lps and sps), hermit crabs, snails and 2 emerold crabs.

Thoughts?

 

[mikesmith34]

Salifert according to the many experienced peeps on this board.

 

[jimmystephens]

Id throw the api away. Api will get u in the ballpark ie 400 cal. Id go with the other which is more accurate (450)

 

[declanisadog]

My API tells me my CA is 500 every time I use it.


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[jrosenblum]

Ok I'll go with the Salifert.

 

[jennm]

Next time, try a Seachem test. It comes with reference solution with a known value. Test the reference, you'll know if it's accurate - and/or if your method is incorrect.

If you know someone with a Seachem kit with reference solution, you can test it with your kits to see if either one is on the mark or not.

Jenn

 

[jrosenblum]

Great idea. Thanks.