Recommendations for Ca and Alk test kits

[newfound77951]

I know there are a lot of junk test kits out there....I am familiar with what's good on the FW side but not SW as much. I am looking to get Calcium and Alkalinity test kits...what brands are recommended?

 

[Kurt_Nelson]

In my opinion, Salifert is the best. However, the API tests for Ca and Alk are a great value for the money. I use both.

 

[melosu58]

Salifert

 

[newfound77951]

Thanks...where do you usually buy the Salifert kits?

 

[Kurt_Nelson]

In the past I've bought them from my LFS. A lot of online retailers carry Salifert, but that was usually the only thing I was buying so I never really saved when you considered shipping. I see that DrFosters now carries Salifert though, so I might start getting it there when I buy salt. You can get the API kits just about anywhere.

 

[ccCapt]

I agree with Salifert. Also, if your testing for Ca and Alk it's good to test for Mag. Many times ppl have a hard time keeping their Ca high because of low Mag.
If your LFS doesnn't carry Salifert kits, you can find them on Ebay and maybe save a few $ on shipping. Some of the online places charge a fixed shipping rate based on the $ amt of the purchase. You may buy a $20 test kit and pay $10 shipping.

 

[smn723]

Salifert! I buy them at Drs. Foster and Smith

 

[newfound77951]

Thanks everyone! I didn't realize F&S was selling those kits now.