Dumb question on API PH test kit

[hllb]

When reading the test, Do you hold the vial say an inch in front of the white on the card, or directly against the white? Because it's a difference between 7.8 and 8.0 for me.

 

[Brad Miller]

Don’t hold it against the card

 

[hllb]

Don’t hold it against the card

Darn, that means my PH dropped in the last few days. Hmmm....I'll test again a little later, since I normally test between 6 and 7 pm.

 

[Brad Miller]

its very normal to have a ph fluctuation during a 24 hour period due to lights on and lights off, there’s a ton of info on this site if you want to search for it.

 

[hllb]

its very normal to have a ph fluctuation during a 24 hour period due to lights on and lights off, there’s a ton of info on this site if you want to search for it.

I have been doing some reading that said to make sure you test at the same time of day. I've also been increasing my lighting period too. I need to get it up as I'm adding some corals to the tank now.

 

[hllb]

Tested about 5 hrs later at 8 or 8.1.

 

[Brad Miller]

Looks good
Try not to pay too much attention to swings and testing as your water changes will keep everything “stable” until things start growing more.
Stable is the key here, not chasing numbers

 

[hllb]

Looks good
Try not to pay too much attention to swings and testing as your water changes will keep everything “stable” until things start growing more.
Stable is the key here, not chasing numbers

Yes, my tank is still new (about 4 weeks) so I’m still verifying my stability!