Cheap Chlorine test

[rmurken]

Was wondering if anyone had a cheap kit or test strip brand they’d recommend for periodically checking RODI?

Alternatively, are there levels of free and total Cl that I can shoot for in finding the least sensitive solution I need that is appropriate for reefkeeping? (I know, zero is the theoretical ideal, but am looking for “good enough”—part of the fun of this hobby is my personal journey of resisting my compulsivity and perfectionism. ).

 

[rmurken]

Wait, I need to read this @Randy Holmes-Farley piece first! Sorry.

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2003-11/rhf/feature/

 

[rmurken]

So it seems the answer is not in testing, but in RODI maintenance (especially annual replacement of sediment and carbon stages).

Answering my own question, but still interested to hear others’ views:

- The carbon stage will handle the bulk of chlorine, subject to the carbon stage being in decent shape.

- Any residual Cl not removed by carbon will be brought down to acceptable levels under normal circumstances by the RO and DI stages. (Granted, Carbon has to be functioning reasonably well against Cl or your RO membrane will die.)

- Hach’s CN-70 or something like it is probably the only means of getting a relevant level of certainty about your RODI before there’s a big problem, but the risk of Cl making it through a properly-maintained RODI system means you probably don’t need it.

- Much cheaper Cl tests that get down to .5 ppm will alert you to a problem, albeit long after Cl breakthrough has reached unacceptable levels.

 

[Crabs McJones]

I still keep these on hand just to he safe.

Insta-Test Free & Total Chlorine & Chloramine Strips (Fresh Water)

Why does BRS recommend this? The easiest way to know if your city uses chlorine or chloramines is by using the LaMotte Test Strips for Free and Total Chlorine. Water Treatment facilities can change their treatment process without notice and usually change the amounts of disinfectants used...

www.bulkreefsupply.com