Apex hands-free testing vs. manual titration

[getwicky]

I'm not really sure what you are asking. Are you asking what hobbyist prefer as it relates to testing? If one prefers manual over automation? If so that will vary. Some prefer automation. Some prefer manual. Others prefer a little bit of both while others do both until they see the pattern and then use observation and data trending using all of the above.

Also note you more than likely either misunderstood or typed information incorrectly regarding Neptune's ask. There are three options for Trident service.

• DIY - $74.95
• Send and service (refurbished returned) $144.93 - shipping one-way included (includes reagent kit)
• Cross ship, or advanced replacement (forget what they call it) $199.95 which includes shipping both directions and reagents (probably the best deal if you don't want to DIY)

Thank you for clarifying on the Neptune options as this is correct and I only listed the last option. Lots of good information in this thread on the first option in particular, thank you again!

 

[c_healy]

I’ve got a trident and have been doing manual testing every day for the last week. I wanted to check and see how close the two were. The trident reads slightly higher but not by all that much. I think the trident is awesome and it’s totally worth the money imo.

 

[t5Nitro]

I think they're cool devices, automated testers, although I've never put one on my tank for a few reasons:

1. They're still hobby grade machines that need relatively frequent maintenance. Sometimes that means you're doing it at home, performing calibrations, or other work requiring your own time. Sometimes it might mean sending it by mail for repairs.

2. When the tank runs stable for a period of time, I feel that you don't need frequent testing. This includes high demand systems like large SPS reefs. I tend to test when I think about it once a week or if something looks off. Testing usually is just alkalinity for me. Hardly ever recheck SG, Ca, Mg. Nutrient checks -- rare.