test strips or kit

[Shon]

Hello I'm need to get some test strips or a kit to test my water. I have had my tank about two weeks and I bought a 4pk of 5in1 strips by API. I am a lil tight on money after getting the set up and fish and I have a coupon for tetra 6in1 strips but should I get them or try and get something better. Also how often should I test my water?

 

[GBHammbone]

Get a liquid test kit ( api master kit) is a common one. It is actually cheaper in the long run. I test every week, but cut down on ph, ammonia and nitrite testing because it hasn't really changed in a couple years.

 

[Fishanatic]

As GB said, a liquid test kit is a lot better. They are more accurate and give more samples. I would not recommend the strips:/

 

[Shon]

Ok thank you both I'm going to petsmart tonight hopefully. I went to one of my lfs and they was extremely rude and not too helpful so I wont be going back. Their loss though my lil sis wanted a bearded dragon and needs the whole set up so I was there to get that and a test kit but they was so rude we walked out. The major reason I need one is today my water is clouded again and like a yellow brown in color. I found out my buddy thought they was hungry yesterday and fed them without saying anything to me and I had already fed them for the day.

 

[Hholly]

If you order it from Amazon it's lots cheaper than Petsmart.

 

[Shon]

Ok ill have to check into that. Just search for Aquarium test kits and is API the way to go I know there is a few others.

 

[Hholly]

API master test for freshwater is the way to go.

 

[Fishperson]

I agree and you should get the API freshwater master test kit, but you sholud look on ebay first. I bought mine for 22$ on ebay, and its normally 32$. Check ebay first.

 

[Shon]

Ok thank you I found one for 22 with free shipping CA be here by the 6th (happy bday to me lol) I'm going to try and order it tonight.