How long after you collect a water sample can you get accurate results?

[bulldogniner]

How long after you collect a water sample can you get accurate results?

Hi guys, if I collect water from my aquarium and take it to my LFS 5 hours later can I expect accurate results? I am mostly concerned with Salinity, pH and nitrates at the moment. I would keep the sample in a plastic collection container and keep it with me at room temperature.

Thanks!

 

[mtfish]

As long as it is tightly sealed salinity and nitrates would be stable. You will have to talk to someone smarter than me for the pH reading.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

pH will be the concern, as bacterial processes in the water may lower the pH in any closed water sample.

The others are fine same day. Salinity is fine forever.

 

[bulldogniner]

Great, thanks guys!