Water Test kit and other products

[manooosie]

I need to buy a water test kit, among other things. I plan on buying everyting from Bigalonline, they seem to have great deals. In addition to a filter, I will be ordering:

Water Test Kit (there are tons of these, I don't know where to start)
Light fixtures
Flouresent Lights
Moonlight
Food (Not sure which fish yet so I am holding off on that)
Heater (for 55g)
Gravel Vaccum (sounds like the python is the way to go here)
Decorations

Please provide links for the items you reccomend to these items on bigalonline if you can. If its from another online store that is ok. I think I will put together a post for any one setting up a tank to take them to all these products. I have found this forum very helpful, but there is no guide to specific products any one would need to set up a great tank. I would simply do it for a 55g tank, which seems common enough. Let me know if you think its a good idea. All I am doing is sitting at work any ways!

 

[penpitt]

Here is alink for the test kit. I've been using this brand for years and found it to be a pretty good one.

http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=19383;category_id=3111;pcid1=3233;pcid2=

Some good lights for planted tanks

http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=29553;category_id=1875;pcid1=1843;pcid2=

THat will give you about 2 3/4 wpg good for most plants

Python is the way to go for PWCs

http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=29553;category_id=1875;pcid1=1843;pcid2=

Dont know how long you need but figure 25' is good for most people

 

[PazMan]

I use that test kit too.

Works great and easy to use.

PazMan

 

[Fishyfanatic]

Here's a good heater
http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=30633;category_id=1733;pcid1=3231;pcid2=

I also use the AP test kit, it's a good one.

Python
http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=19125;category_id=2937

 

[manooosie]

Here is what I got for my post so far:



Water Test Kit

Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Freshwater Master Test Kit

http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=19383;category_id=3111;pcid1=3233;pcid2=

The Freshwater Master Test Kit is a complete kit for testing tap water and aquarium water. Tests water five different ways to protect tropical fish from dangerous water conditions. Tests include: freshwater pH, high range pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. Kit features 4 test tubes, a holding tray for testing bottles, and test tube rack.

“I've been using this brand for years and found it to be a pretty good one.” –Pennpit

“Works great and easy to use.” -PazMan

Heater

Aquarium Systems Visi-Therm Stealth Heater-250 Watt

http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=30633;category_id=1733;pcid1=3231;pcid2=

The Visi-Therm Stealth is a submersible aquarium heater which combines streamlined design with water calibrated accuracy. Features include: easy set adjustability, overheating protection, which shuts the heater off when removed from the water, reinforced plastic coating that protects components against thermal and mechanical shock, and a aluminum cylinder which distributes heat evenly and efficiently.

“Here's a good heater.” –Fishyfanatic

"This heater gave me third degree burns just looking at it!" -Pazman

Gravel Vaccum

Python No Spill Clean And Fill- 25'

http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=19123;category_id=2937;pcid1=;pcid2=

Python no spill clean and fill is a complete ready to use system which adapts easily to most faucets and makes water changes a breeze. It drains as well as fills aquariums. For saltwater, fill a container next to the aquarium to prepare the salt mix. When prepared, use the python to clean the tank, then use a pump or powerhead to fill the aquarium. Python no spill clean and fill system includes the following supplies: hose, gravel tube, switch, hose connectors, faucet pump, and faucet adapter.

“I crap my pants every time I use this it’s so good” -Fishyfanatic
[/i]

 

[greenmaji]

I have some complaints about the AP testkit and I asked Toirtis what he recommended and he said the Hagan was easier to read.. not to mention its more complete.. here is the link..
http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=19475;category_id=3111;pcid1=3233;pcid2=

 

[greenmaji]

That and lee's product is the same thing as the python.. its just a little cheaper..
http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=28833;category_id=2001;pcid1=3347;pcid2=

 

[manooosie]

new thread on subject

http://aquariumadvice.com/viewtopic.php?p=476667#476667

 

[Fluff]

Check out the product reviews area of AA for other products and opinions.

http://www.aquariumadvice.com/reviewpost/

 

[Fishyfanatic]

I still like the AP kit. No complaints here.

 

[rich311k]

I love my AP kit. I had to buy the nitrate kit on the side as well.

 

[quadrider5953]

The AP kit is a good kit. It is fairly cheap too (about $20). It is well worth the money HTH

-Kyle