Getting different alk readings...

[Mark...]

I'm in the process of setting up my kalk in the ATO and was making adjustments to alk and calcium before I start it up. Using two different Red Sea tests, one where you add drops manually with the pipette and the other where you add drops with the syringe. I got a dkh of 7.5 on the first and 11 on the second. I've very careful during the process, so I don't believe I made any errors. Good thing I have only one calcium test kit!

Should I just start the kalk in the ATO using 0.5 teaspoon per gallon (low dose) or should I wait?

Calcium was 375 and I'm raising it to 420. With some BRS calcium chloride.

I'm going to get Hanna testers when these run out.

 

[mnat]

Check the expiration dates?

 

[Mark...]

Check the expiration dates?

They are both good. I guess I'll run them again.

 

[horseplay]

I have seem only one red sea kit, the one using syringe and it's pretty consistent. However the color does change more gradually comparing to the calc kit. If you have a dog of 11 there is no need for alk. I run my tank at 7.5.

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[Mark...]

I have seem only one red sea kit, the one using syringe and it's pretty consistent. However the color does change more gradually comparing to the calc kit. If you have a dog of 11 there is no need for alk. I run my tank at 7.5.

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My dogs are 5 and 7, but I don't see how old my dog's age effect my alk...Dance

But seriously, I tested using the syringe method and got a dkh of 10.6...so I'll go with this number.

So I only run the kalk when my numbers are low or should I start supplementing via ATO now?

Thanks!

 

[john90009]

iv only trusted salifert and salifert only. any stores near you that you can get a second opinion?

 

[Tommyboynj]

The salifert kits are worth the extra cash. The color change is very clear. You'd be amazed at how two different kits can give a wide result. Especially from different manufactures.


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[dnov99]

I have been using lamotte for years and I swear by it. It's the only test kit they make, so they have perfected it IMO...

 

[trivan]

I use a Hanna checker and double check with Red Sea, they both come within the allowable testing variance. Hanna is very quick and easy.

 

[horseplay]

I think it will be fun to bring in our test kits to one of the meetings and test the same water. Maybe it has done before. But this show the variations among different manufactures and different batches from the same manufacture.

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