Hanna ULR phosphate checker

[Hockeynut]

I have a question,
Do you guys who use the ulr phosphate checker run your test twice? I have been doing a second test right after the first and getting two really different results.
last night I got a .07 reading and then rand it again with the 3 minute timer and got a .03
These are the results almost every time. Two or three points different every time.
When I am stirring the reagent I always use a timer and always mix at same speed to keep results as consistent as possible.

 

[ericrodriguez]

One of the 2 times was off. I have done it 2 times but usually same reading maybe ones I got a different reading

 

[iTzJu]

The checkers usually have a +/- of .03 of accuracy, best to test 3 times and then avg out if you really want to be precise but I usually just go with the first reading if the reef is looking fine but if you are having issues I usually keep a different test kit on hand just to gauge where both is coming in.

 

[Hockeynut]

One of the 2 times was off. I have done it 2 times but usually same reading maybe ones I got a different reading

I have never gotten the same reading twice. Test is done exactly the same and always a different reading. Always

 

[Hockeynut]

The checkers usually have a +/- of .03 of accuracy, best to test 3 times and then avg out if you really want to be precise but I usually just go with the first reading if the reef is looking fine but if you are having issues I usually keep a different test kit on hand just to gauge where both is coming in.

That’s what I have been doing. An average of three.
the first test is always higher then the next tests.

 

[ericrodriguez]

I have never gotten the same reading twice. Test is done exactly the same and always a different reading. Always

I’m just been honest with you. Just very few times I had a different reading and still very close.
Good luck

 

[iTzJu]

That’s what I have been doing. An average of three.
the first test is always higher then the next tests.

hmm, might want to call Hanna and see if they can replace it if you are really getting different readings every test. hard to really gauge the phosphate tests unlike the alk test since you can buy reference kits for those. I don't think they have reference kits for the ULR Phos from what I know.

 

[saltkreep88]

Double check the vials for fingerprints, and make sure the 10ml stamp is facing the same way both times. Prints and scratches on the vial mess with the reading.

 

[Hockeynut]

Double check the vials for fingerprints, and make sure the 10ml stamp is facing the same way both times. Prints and scratches on the vial mess with the reading.

Never made sure the stamp was facing the same way but I am very sure there is no fingerprints or scratches on the vile. They are perfect and I clean the hell out of them right before they go into the checker with micro fiber.

 

[Hockeynut]

hmm, might want to call Hanna and see if they can replace it if you are really getting different readings every test. hard to really gauge the phosphate tests unlike the alk test since you can buy reference kits for those. I don't think they have reference kits for the ULR Phos from what I know.

I may contact them it’s pretty new, under a year

 

[Yates273]

Also I store my vials with RODI water in them to keep them clean. I’ve heard any smudges will skew a test

 

[ecam]

Also. How many of you guys use the same vial for the test. I know it’s a time fire drill. But using the same vial for the test is ally important for consistence

 

[ecam]

Using one vial to test and the other one to zero creates an issue in my opinion

 

[saltkreep88]

Agreed. It isn't a rush for me when you cut the packet open in advance and create a V to pour it from. Also it doesn't take the reading until the end of the 3 minute countdown so some fine hassiness can go away in this 3 mins after mixing.

 

[ecam]

Sorry @saltkreep88 I had to mention this. You know when trying to retrain the elderly sometimes requires constant reinforcement