Fishyname said:
i have fish coral and inverts do i need both of these test kits? the lfs said i dont need them for me to just bring my water in. but im the type to like to know everything is thats happening with out a trip to the lfs.
doing my first water change tomarrow after work
any advice would be appreciated
Yes. You have a reef tank, you need to be able to determine temp, salinity, ph, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate.
Note: magnesium is not included in either kit.
As far as first water change.
1) mix the salt to proper salinity in a bucket or other large "food grade" container.
2) heat to same temp as tank
3) use a pump or powerhead to mix the salt overnight for it to fully dissolve and stabilize.
4) remove X amount of gallons, siphoning out any and all detritus.
5) ensure temp and salinity are correct in newly mixed water and pour slowly into tank or use utility pump like a maxijet.
Also be sure to use a quality salt mix for consistency and proper dissolving of salt.