Faulty nitrate test kit?

[Auqaman]

Hi,
I’ve had 2ppm nitrate for a few months but now it’s dropped off the chart. I use the Red Sea reef test kit and there’s no colour to the test water. I’m kinda thinking the test kit is faulty. Is that possible? Here’s a picture of the results.

 

[sublime275]

What makes you think it couldn’t be 0 nitrates?

 

[Auqaman]

I just didn’t think it was possible. It’s still a fairly new tank (about 3 months). 6 fish, 1 nem and 11 snails. I’ve increased the feeding the past week and it’s still rock bottom

 

[sublime275]

It‘s possible. I have to dose sodium nitrate in order to have a measurable level of nitrate. I use the same test kit as you do.

 

[burningstarIV]

I agree, definitely possible to be at zero and not likely to be your kit. Sometimes feeding more just increases phosphates and not nitrates too, so you can't be 100% sure until you dose nitrate or cross check with another test kit. But, I think it's very likely you're at zero nitrates. Congrats! Add some more fish, lol.

 

[Auqaman]

That’s so great! I just didn’t think I’d ever see the day lol. Definitely going out to pick up a few additions. Thanks

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

That’s so great! I just didn’t think I’d ever see the day lol. Definitely going out to pick up a few additions. Thanks

Might also want to start feeding more or dose nitrate. 0 ppm is worse than 2 ppm nitrate.

 

[Vwluv10338]

I have the same test kit and had dinos break out once my nitrates hit zero. Caused a small tank crash with bleaching

 

[jphilip813]

I do have a question about this test kit, I just purchased it two days ago for $42.00...(EXPENSIVE AF)...any how, what is the purpose of the First Vial of 16ml of aquarium water? I am still confused if it just SITS in the hole...

 

[Vwluv10338]

I do have a question about this test kit, I just purchased it two days ago for $42.00...(EXPENSIVE AF)...any how, what is the purpose of the First Vial of 16ml of aquarium water? I am still confused if it just SITS in the hole...

It is a control vial or water to look through. If there is something in the water to alter the color you need to compare the test vial to the vial of tank water. That being said, I don’t use mine

 

[Backreefing]

If your nitrates have hit zero ( very possible ). If I were you I’d be checking your phosphates as well . They to may have bottomed out .

 

[Auqaman]

If your nitrates have hit zero ( very possible ). If I were you I’d be checking your phosphates as well . They to may have bottomed out .

Phosphates have also bottomed our. I’m a little concerned. I’ve turned off the skimmer and will be feeding the tank a little more