Most cost-effective tests?

[NC2WA]

Pixie,

i downsized to 3 QTs (55, 55, and 75g)..they are NOT inline with my main tank..they are separate but since all the equipment to do WC is in the garage, there is no excuse in doing water changes.

you are welcome to stop by and see my setup anytime..let me know..
Kirk

 

[Pip Tazo]

zoysn,

you will love it..i love mine..

...I love it.

SO EASY to use!! (I got a funnel to help transfer the reagent to the cuvette.. I tend to be clumsy and spill a lot.)

 

[rayn]

One thing I haven't seen mentioned and I think makes a difference is consistency. In how you test and what you use. API, to salifert, to elos could all read different. If you are in the acceptable range with any test stick with it. Don't switch it up constantly. If you like a certain brand for a certain test stick with it as another brand could give a wildly different number. Also the test needs to be performed the same each time, filled correctly with water and chemicals, then given the proper amount of time to work.

Only time I use different test kits around the same time is for comparison, and hey have yet to give me the same numbers.

One last thought, expiration dates. Those regeants don't have a shelf life of 100 years, and they are generally around large amounts of water. How quickly can they fail and give eronious readings?

 

[rayn]

http://www.advancedaquarist.com/blo...nge-how-aquarists-measure-aquarium-parameters

Maybe not the most cost effective off the bat, but it would be so cool!

 

[NC2WA]

Also the test needs to be performed the same each time, filled correctly with water and chemicals, then given the proper amount of time to work

excellent point...

I tend to test my parameters around 3-4 pm after my lights have been on for several hours...