Measuring KH with Test Strips?

[It’s the Grim Reefer]

Hey R2R family,

I’m going to commence cycling my tank this weekend and I’m going to use the Red Sea Mature Reef Starter Kit. This process requires frequently measuring KH. I bought these 7 in 1 test strips but now I’m confused… which test is actually measuring the KH/Alkalinity?

I’ve done some research and it’s calling alkalinity hardness and carbonate as well. On this test kit, to measure the KH, am I looking at:
Total Hardness,
Total Alkalinity
Or
Carbonate?

Thanks for your input!

 

[gbroadbridge]

Please go back to your LFS and buy a Salifert Alkalinity Test kit.

You will need a proper set of tests to run a marine tank, so don't waste time with those test strips.

Another VERY important tool you need when starting a tank is a method of measuring the salinity of the water.
What instrument do you have to measure that?

 

[Fish Fan]

Unfortunately, those test strips are never very accurate, in my experience. Usually, even if they say "Aquarium" on the label, they are really swimming pool test strips, and not even considered that accurate for swimming pools.

As @gbroadbridge mentioned, the Salifert brand test kits are arguably the most accurate and easy to use, while also being inexpensive:

Salifert kH/Alkalinity Aquarium Test Kit

Easily test the kH/Alkalinity level in your tank. Trusted by discerning reefers for years, Salifert Test Kits feature some of the easiest to read results available to each testing method. The Salifert kH/Alkalinity Test Kit contains 100-200 (typically closer to 100) tests.

www.bulkreefsupply.com

Good luck!

 

[It’s the Grim Reefer]

Ok, good feedback. Thanks all.

I’ve purchased a Hanna Checker for Nitrate and Alkalinity. I have a digital ph meter with calibration solution and an ATC refractometer. That should be a better approach.