Calcium test reading

[GThompson]

I’m using four test kits and none of the readings are consistent. Salifert never changed color, so higher than test could read. Hanna read 403 first test 418 second test. API read 460. Idip reads “hi”. Don’t really know which one to believe. All of these test kits are new. Any input ?

 

[Rlreefing]

There is going to be a margin of error with any test kit. The only way to get super accurate is using a mas-spec but most of us are not able to justify such a purchase. I would say that you should choose one test kit and utilize that as your go to in order to keep consistency and gauge your coral health and adjust accordingly. I utilize a Hanna as they are easier to use. Make sure thaty your vials are clean and free of hand oils, measure the same way each time and have the regents prepped before starting the test. If you are interested check out bulk reef supply videos on calcium testing kits. https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/vide..._comment_id=2277532035675673_2280774848684725

 

[GThompson]

There is going to be a margin of error with any test kit. The only way to get super accurate is using a mas-spec but most of us are not able to justify such a purchase. I would say that you should choose one test kit and utilize that as your go to in order to keep consistency and gauge your coral health and adjust accordingly. I utilize a Hanna as they are easier to use. Make sure thaty your vials are clean and free of hand oils, measure the same way each time and have the regents prepped before starting the test. If you are interested check out bulk reef supply videos on calcium testing kits. https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/vide..._comment_id=2277532035675673_2280774848684725

Missed this video. That was an eye opener. I may just pick the easiest one to use and go with that. Lol

 

[eXact iDip®]

I’m using four test kits and none of the readings are consistent. Salifert never changed color, so higher than test could read. Hanna read 403 first test 418 second test. API read 460. Idip reads “hi”. Don’t really know which one to believe. All of these test kits are new. Any input ?

I noticed you've been having the "HI" calcium reading issue for a while now and you sent your meter back to us. Are you still getting "HI" with the new meter?

 

[GThompson]

I noticed you've been having the "HI" calcium reading issue for a while now and you sent your meter back to us. Are you still getting "HI" with the new meter?

So far, yes. I’m trying other things to figure out the problem. Testing with other kits my calcium is elevated probably to the point of being out of range on the Idip. As soon as I come up with a good answer I’ll let you know. Thanks for checking in with me

 

[eXact iDip®]

Ok, thanks for keeping us in the loop! If it helps, the range for testing calcium (if you're using the Ultra High Marine Kit) is 730-1500ppm (as CaCO3) and 292 - 600 (as Ca). You can change your preference for what unit it's giving you in the profile section under preferred units of measurement. The default is as CaCO3.