Trying to read my PH & KH

[badbart]

In my planted tank with CO2 I have tested the water with test strips that tell me my PH is 7.2 and my KH is 180. Every chart I try to look at to read the CO2 levels has KH in single to double digits. The chart on the strips say the KH is ideal but I not sure how convert the triple digit readings so I can read the CO2 charts.

Example

Algone.com - The Planted Aquarium / Aquarium Plants

 

[jungle]

In my planted tank with CO2 I have tested the water with test strips that tell me my PH is 7.2 and my KH is 180. Every chart I try to look at to read the CO2 levels has KH in single to double digits. The chart on the strips say the KH is ideal but I not sure how convert the triple digit readings so I can read the CO2 charts.

Example

Algone.com - The Planted Aquarium / Aquarium Plants

I'm using red sea co2 indicator drop test. I think this is easier. I just need to change the liquid when i change water... the test is about $9 on ebay.

 

[brutus]

its because you are reading ppm instead of dkh i think 180 ppm is close to 10 dkh but also check with others on that.

 

[jsoong]

Agree, the KH is in ppm.

1dKH = 17.8 ppm (or mg/l)

Here's a calculator that you can use with either ppm or dKH:
Measuring CO2 levels in a Planted Tank

BTW - you have about 19 ppm of CO2 with your numbers.

 

[fort384]

Badbart, I would also consider moving away from those strip tests, and get the liquid titration tests. They will allow you to get a more accurate handle on your pH/KH/GH levels. In my limited experience, I also started out with the strips, but found when I switched to titration that I could narrow in on the readings.