What's the best test kit?

[degbowl]

I purchased a Hagen Nutrafin master test kit. It was fine for my cycle, but now I need refills for NH3. Instead of buying refills should I just start buying an ammonia test kit from a different company?

 

[tecwzrd]

Hagen test kits are fairly accurate but personally I’ve always liked Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Master Test Kit for the basic ph/nh3/no2/no3 and for everything else I use Salifert which is the most reliable IME.

 

[roka64]

I use the AP, all are pretty easy to read, except the pH (i seem to have trouble determining shades of purple...)

 

[austinsdad]

i seem to have trouble determining shades of purple...)

Glad to know it's not just me. I recently added a 24hr monitor to watch my ph. When adding buffers, I see it change immediately. Nice.

 

[roka64]

recently added a 24hr monitor to watch my ph

That might be a good idea. Where did you get it?

 

[ryguy]

I like salifert, myself.

 

[degbowl]

I've heard nothing but good things about Salifert. I might try an Ammonia test kit and see how it goes. Thanks for all the replies.

 

[ryguy]

They are great but one of the pricier tests.

 

[degbowl]

I know, but I would rather spend a little extra and know I am getting accurate results.

 

[ryguy]

that's my thoughts too.

 

[tecwzrd]

Personally I wouldn’t waste the $12-$18+ on Salifert tests for the basic nh3/no2/no3/ph tests.

I was disappointed with the Salifert no3 test which was even harder to read then my AP test

Don’t get me wrong, I love Salifert tests but I feel it’s really only worth the extra $$$ when it comes to testing things like ca/kh/mg/ect…

Considering a tank that already is cycled should never see any nh3/no2 I think the basic AP test is more then adequate for testing and is easy enough to read if it’s greater then 0.

 

[ryguy]

Good point, tecwzrd.

I've never used salifert ammonia and nitrite tests. I use their NO3, Alk, Ca, Silicate and Phosphate tests and am basing my judgement on those only.