How long is a water sample good for a nitrate test?

[Doob]

I'd like a second opinion on my nitrate levels. Rather than buying another kit, I'd rather take a sample to a buddy at work.

If I take a sample in the morning, will it somehow degrade and be unusable for testing by the afternoon?

It'll likely be 12 hours between putting it in a vial and testing it.

 

[bobman]

That should be fine. As long as it didnt sit more months then I cant see the water getting anerobic and rowing bacteria to consume the nitrates in 12 hours

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

It may rise or fall, depending on what else is in the water.

 

[Doob]

I did see a dog hair in it. [emoji38][emoji84]

 

[CastAway]

Hair is nitrogen rich; can be used as a plant fertilizer.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

It is likely OK for a couple of hours, as long as you did not recently add a organic like vodka or very fine foods that may still be suspended.