Help Please, Refractometer vs ATC refractometer

[drivingmecrazy]

Hello Reefers,

I have a Marineland refractometer and I'm having to double check the calibration everyday. I usually check it in the mornings and by mid evening I'm finding my self having to recalibrate it.

I calibrate it by using RODI water. I'm using the same container of water as I used during the morning. My source is my auto top off water next to my aquarium.

The temp stays the same in the house with the AC on.

Should a refractometer have to be calibrated this frequently or should I invest in an Automatic temperature compensation.

Is this my problem? What are your thoughts.

It's usually off by 1 point.

Thanks,

Christopher

 

[Old Fritz]

i have the imagitarium one for mine and I haven't calibrated it in like a month. It still gives me the same reading every time so no you shouldn't have to calibrate every day

 

[ReefRondo]

I would seriously consider the likes of the Milwaukee digital unit. I have 2 now and absolutely love them. Not cheap but one of the best pieces of equipment I have invested in and well worth it.

 

[homer1475]

First problem is calibrating with RO/DI, you should be using calibration fluid. With a single point of reference our refractometers measure and stay calibrated better when calibrating closer to what your measuring(in our case that's 1.025 or 35ppt).

Yes your instruction probably say to calibrate with RO/DI, but that is false. ATC also helps, but is not needed if you just let your sample sit on the refractometer for 30 seconds so it's the same temp as the glass on your unit. Or warm up the glass with your hands before taking your reading so it's closer to your tanks temp.

 

[cromag27 Verified Sponsor]

no, you shouldn’t have to calibrate it that often. as mentioned, just get the milwaukee digital. it will make your life much happier.

 

[Peace River]

Here is a link to a DIY refractometer calibration solution so you can calibrate at 35ppt instead of RODI.

 

[drivingmecrazy]

Thanks for everyone's feedback. I thought something was wrong

I will look into the Milwaukee digital unit. I had some calibration fluid 35ppt. I didn't think I could rely on it 100% I have seen numerous post about using rodi water versus the calibration solution. And considering how often I calibrated it.

I will use this solution for now on. I will check out this digital unit time to talk to the wife

Thanks for all the replies,

Christopher

 

[ReefRondo]

You’re very welcome Christopher.
I’ve found since having these Milwaukee units my stability is just far better. If it’s easier for me to do I do it more often...simple.