Automated or manual testing?

Olefreebe · Jul 23, 2020

Hello everyone, as I'm sure you can tell by the title I was wanting to see everyone's opinion on going manual or automated for their water testing. I understand that it is determined by everyone's personal preferences, Financial situations, and tank needs.
I will use my personal situation as an example. I think it would be better for me personally to go with the Hanna testers. My reasons would be that I only have a 20 gallon nano tank, I have no aquarium controller (which apparently is a necessity as automated testers seem to be only available as add-ons for controllers), and I don't plan on having SPS anytime soon.
I would enjoy hearing other people's opinions on suggestions for me personally and what might have made them lean toward the choices that they made.
Thank you for your responses in advance.

Spare time · Jul 23, 2020

Automatic testing is more handy if you want frequent tests but I can't justify the price of those setups considering the most important test for most reef tanks (alk) is pretty quick and easy and others can be done once a week or even less (calcium is handy once a week, where as magnesium is fine once a month in most cases).

725196 · Jul 23, 2020

I can’t answer with the choices you give. I do both. Some things cannot be done via automation, yet. Maybe someday.

I do most of mine manually but plan to add a Triton as soon as I can. I also send in monthly ICP tests.

Keep in mind every kind of testing has pros and cons and limitations. Consistency the be thing to shoot for.