Hanna Salinity checker vs Milwaukee refractometer

[aus1230]

Two part question here. My Hannah Salinity checker is reading 1.026 and my Milwaukee refractometer is reading 1.024. Can I split the difference and assume that the salinity is somewhere within that range? If it were to be more on the 1.024 side of things should I attempt to make some water with my water change that is scheduled today to be read at 1.026 on the Milwaukee refractometer?

 

[Fury808]

I would calibrate them. Then I would research which is most accurate. Splitting the difference is not a good way to determine your salinity.

 

[aus1230]

I would calibrate them. Then I would research which is most accurate. Splitting the difference is not a good way to determine your salinity.

Just recalibrated the Milwaukee refractometer and then used the 1.025 solution and it's still reading 1.024. My Hannah Checker was reading 1.025.

 

[ReefED!]

Hanna checkers are just not accurate. They're consistently off by 0.002+- in my experience with 3 different units.

I use them for quick reads to know when I'm in the ballpark + temp, but otherwise I use a refractometer or tropic marin hydrometer.

(Vee Gee STX - super reliable - my Red Sea one was not)

 

[Fury808]

Just recalibrated the Milwaukee refractometer and then used the 1.025 solution and it's still reading 1.024. My Hannah Checker was reading 1.025.

I would use the recalibrated Milwaukee refractometer. I would also calibrate it every month or two. I didnt calibrate my refractometer for 6 months and it was reading 1.026 when my salinity was actually 1.022.

 

[slingfox]

Hanna salinity checker is not accurate. I have used three of them, each calibrated with the Hanna calibration packets. None could give me consistently accurate readings.

You should look into getter the TM Hydrometer or the VeeGee Refractometer. I use the VeeGee and it lines up with my ICPs perfectly.

 

[davidm777]

I have the Milwaukee. If I use the solution it reads 36ppt.
I live in San Diego. If I measure the ocean is spot on 35ppt.
Now I just use the solution and I expect to see the 36... Although I have heard some units being off they still constant so in case your unit is off. You could learn what's the off set and then keep on using it.