Reading Salifert KH/ALK tests

[Pellaeon]

Alright I am having some issues reading this dang test, maybe :neutral:. The first and foremost issue I am having is, when I do the 3rd step, the water is supposed to change from blue to pink. Do they mean perhaps light purple?

Assuming light purple is what I am looking for I get readings of 2.74meq/L and 7.7 dKH from the table.


I am getting a very big airpocket when using the Calcium test in the 1mL, more than what I get in the KH kit, not sure if this is an issue or not. My calcium levels are off the chart, meaning I use the entire 1mL syringe with no change in color.

 

[Murfman]

When you get the color change from blue to light purple, try adding 1 more drop to ensure you are at the correct reading and not just "flashing". Also make sure you are lightly stirring the test tube after each drop to mix thoroughly. High Ca will indicate a lower Alk level.

 

[Pellaeon]

I tried adding many more drops last night and didnt get it to change from the light purple so I figured that must be euro for pink :squigglemouth:

My Calcium is quite high, off the chart so perhpas I need to stop the purple up !

When you get the color change from blue to light purple, try adding 1 more drop to ensure you are at the correct reading and not just "flashing". Also make sure you are lightly stirring the test tube after each drop to mix thoroughly. High Ca will indicate a lower Alk level.

 

[yukon]

I would stop the Purple up and do some water changes to get your levels in check. After your levels are straight use a 2 part to keep them in check.

The Salifert kits can be tricky at first but I've come to really like mine. Be sure your reading from the Plunger location and not the liquid line. Just for refrance I usually see my liquid line on the KH kit go to some where around the .75 mark. The gap is due to the fluid in the plastic tip. I supose each tip could be slightly different and hold varing amount of the fluid so alway go by the plunger

I add drop until I see it change from Blue to a clear pink color. As stated about keep mixing after each drop and if not sure remember where it was at and add another drop or 2 to see if it changes. It also may help to have another set of eyes looking at the change and move into some more natural light. I know my tank lights make everything look blue:bigsmile: