Which water test kit is accurate while being affordable?

[wannabeeareefkeeper]

Which test kit do you prefer?

How long have you been using this specific water test kit?

If you have changed from another brand test kit, why did your change brands?:unsure:


I want to see which water test set would be a great choose as I pursue this hobby of bringing the ocean into my living space.

What are your thoughts :jester: and please give me some personal experiences that you have dwelled in on your road to substaining the ocean within your living quarters?

 

[Jaycen B.]

You mean I need to test my water? I like Salifert or Elos kits they seem pretty good. I have not used the new line of red sea kits. But I think most will get you in the ballpark of where you need to be. Short of a lab analysis it will be a toss up.

 

[shanepike]

I've been using the Marine Basic kit from Seachem for about 3 months now. It was quite daunting for me at first, but I got used to it pretty quickly. Virtually everyone I've ever heard likes Seachem the best.

 

[tsellers]

I have been using the Red Sea Pro kits for CAL ALK and MAG for several months and have been very pleased.

 

[islandreef]

tsellers;769173 wrote: I have been using the Red Sea Pro kits for CAL ALK and MAG for several months and have been very pleased.

Same here

 

[ralph atl]

I like Elos kits for most things.

I use DD Merck low range for phosphates.

 

[rdnelson]

Started with the API Saltwater Master and Reef Master kits. They are cheap and between the two you get just about everything you need. Drawback they are not accurate. I since have gone to Elos on some of the more important things but still use what API I still have for some. I figure it gives me an idea if there is a problem growning and if so, I will either grab a good kit or have it tested by someone I trust. I will not buy any more though and most likely will stick with the Elos.

 

[harleyx2]

I like Seachem.

 

[jennm]

I use/recommend Seachem. I'm not a fan of their ammonia test, but a stable tank rarely needs testing for ammonia anyway, and theirs will rule it in or out (amount is a moot point when there should be none!)

For everything else I've found them to be simple and accurate and come with a reference solution so you can see for yourself if your test or method is accurate.

Jenn

 

[shanepike]

Glad it's not just me on the ammonia test. I don't get that thing at all

 

[skriz]

Seachem. They back their products with science and research.

 

[ralph atl]

Skriz;769262 wrote: Seachem. They back their products with science and research.

Seachem are the most poorly designed kits I've ever used. I threw mine out, and never looked back.

Elos, "Validation of each Reagent batch using NIST (National Institute of Standard and Technology) certified samples. While some may claim to use, "lab quality components" in their kits, Elos validates each batch of reagents using these NIST certified samples.
Batch testing the results of our Marine kits that enter the USA using an Independent Sea Water lab to further ensure we are providing a reliable kit is also done."


but either way, Elos has been consistent for hobby grade kits.


THIS IS INTERESTING:

http://www.atlantareefclub.org/forums/archive/index.php/t-58781.html">http://www.atlantareefclub.org/forums/archive/index.php/t-58781.html</a>


:wow2:

 

[rdnelson]

Thanks for the thread reference Ralph. Really makes you wonder and supports the philosophy of not chasing numbers. It really surprises me that there is SUCH a range. I would expect to some range but when the lab test is so far off of all the others that is perplexing. Really makes it difficult to determine a course of action when you can not trust the readings you are getting.

 

[ripped tide]

I use a variety of kits, but i will say that seachem has the BEST color grade scale. half the other test kits around have horrible color charts. You can never tell which color it is. Seachem's kits come with a nice color match sliding scale. A+

yeah, the ammonia is no good.

 

[skriz]

mysterybox;769295 wrote: Seachem are the most poorly designed kits I've ever used. I threw mine out, and never looked back.

Elos, "Validation of each Reagent batch using NIST (National Institute of Standard and Technology) certified samples. While some may claim to use, "lab quality components" in their kits, Elos validates each batch of reagents using these NIST certified samples.
Batch testing the results of our Marine kits that enter the USA using an Independent Sea Water lab to further ensure we are providing a reliable kit is also done."


but either way, Elos has been consistent for hobby grade kits.


THIS IS INTERESTING:

http://www.atlantareefclub.org/forums/archive/index.php/t-58781.html">http://www.atlantareefclub.org/forums/archive/index.php/t-58781.html</a>


:wow2:[/QUOTE]

What exactly is interesting about the thread you posted? It shows all test kits tested vary in their results. AWT is not a lab test, they're just using Aqua Medic kits. Unless I accidentally skipped a relevant post or something?

Seachem kits are made in very very small batches, ensuring fresh kits. They're made in the USA (GA), so no chance of deterioration from overseas container shipping either. And the reference solution gives you peace of mind that the test is accurate.

But, use whatever kit you like. In most cases, the actual number isn't important; consistency and stability is. Most kits should be able to give you a consistent readout (even if it's an incorrect value).

 

[rdnelson]

Can't speak for Ralph but in my case, what is interesting is how inaccurate they all are. Or at least all but one. Who is to say which one is accurate? I do however agree with you that from my limited knowledge, consistency seems to be the key. Just amazes me that if you were using Aqua Medic and trying to get your AK up to say 8, where would you really be? While consistency is important, seems that there is a point where you can be too high or too low even if you are consistent. Not trying to be arguementative just trying to understand from a newbie point of view.

 

[wannabeeareefkeeper]

mysterybox;769295 wrote: Seachem are the most poorly designed kits I've ever used. I threw mine out, and never looked back.

Elos, "Validation of each Reagent batch using NIST (National Institute of Standard and Technology) certified samples. While some may claim to use, "lab quality components" in their kits, Elos validates each batch of reagents using these NIST certified samples.
Batch testing the results of our Marine kits that enter the USA using an Independent Sea Water lab to further ensure we are providing a reliable kit is also done."


but either way, Elos has been consistent for hobby grade kits.


THIS IS INTERESTING:

http://www.atlantareefclub.org/forums/archive/index.php/t-58781.html">http://www.atlantareefclub.org/forums/archive/index.php/t-58781.html</a>


:wow2:[/QUOTE]
Mysterybox:

Thanks for your response and especially the "interesting link" within your response.:thumbs::D and for your :thinking:.:thewave:

 

[wannabeeareefkeeper]

rdnelson99;769299 wrote: Thanks for the thread reference Ralph. Really makes you wonder and supports the philosophy of not chasing numbers. It really surprises me that there is SUCH a range. I would expect to some range but when the lab test is so far off of all the others that is perplexing. Really makes it difficult to determine a course of action when you can not trust the readings you are getting.

rdnelson99:

I like your analysis of quality water and accurate measurements of tank water. If members of ARC is planning a trip for MAGNA in Ft.Worth/Dalla Texas later this year, maybe we could have them bring up this type of discussion with the "doctors" that will be there.

I believe it would be better to speak to University Professors in Marine Biology or related subject matter experts than speaking to vendors whom main focus is selling their products/services to the world.

 

[rdnelson]

^ No doubt. Makes me think there may be a business opportunity if I were a chemist. LOL

 

[silver surfer]

Elos seems to be spot on everyone