TESTING EQUIPMENT

Dorkleberry · May 22, 2022

So, I need some recommendations for non drip/strip tests for my tank. But I also want them to be as affordable as possible while still being reliable. The parameters that I need these tests for are phosphate, nitrite, and nitrate. Ammonia is fine bc I have the seachem year-long ammonia readers.

If possible send links to these pieces of testing equipment.

homer1475 · May 22, 2022

Go to BRS and look up salifert. Affordable, and reliable. Although once a tank is cycled, nitrite test is pointless.

Only test I would not buy is the phosphate test. This job is best left to the hanna ulr phosphate checker.

Are we adding corals to this tank? Then you will also need alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium.

Dryan · May 22, 2022

I found the Marine Care Test kit pretty good bang for your buck for when I first started:
https://www.redseafish.com/reef-care-program/marine-care-program/marine-care-test-kit-2/
That gives you nitrite, nitrate, and backup ammonia with pH and Alk should you need them.

I eventually upgraded to the Hanna nitrate, and ULR phosphorous.

Completely agree if you're looking on adding coral you'll need Magnesium, Alk and Calcium, I use aquaforest for Calcium and Alk, with salifert for magnesium.

Dorkleberry · May 22, 2022

homer1475 said:
Go to BRS and look up salifert. Affordable, and reliable. Although once a tank is cycled, nitrite test is pointless.

Only test I would not buy is the phosphate test. This job is best left to the hanna ulr phosphate checker.

Are we adding corals to this tank? Then you will also need alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium.

I'm probably not going to add corals to this tank. Thank you for the recommendations.

homer1475 · May 22, 2022

Then fowlr it is

Salifert will fit the bill then for all the tests.

They are like $20 for 50 tests or so(varies by test). Very reliable, and repeatable.