Nitrates: Hanna vs. Salifert

[-Logzor]

I've never really tested nitrates, every once in awhile I'll check them with a cheap API test kit. With the resolution of that kit, they're always undetectable.

Sometimes I notice improvement in my SPS when I feed heavy, however that usually results in additional algae growth. So it seems slightly elevated nitrates play a role in SPS health, growth, and color.

I'm planning on testing this by dosing KNO3 via Spectracide Stump Remover. I've made a 1M solution and plan on raising my nitrates to 1-5 ppm. I'm going to first try this in my frag system then move on to the display if I have success.

Notable aquariums, such as the WWC display tank, maintain up to 40 ppm nitrates. It's hard to believe, but that system speaks for itself.

I'm try to decide if I need the Hanna meter or if the Salifert kit will suffice. Is the Salifert kit accurate enough and easy enough to distinguish between 1-2-3-4-5 ppm?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Last I heard from Hanna (couple of months ago), they did not have a nitrate checker that worked in seawater due to excessive interference from chloride.

 

[-Logzor]

Thanks for pointing that out. Looks like the Hanna checkers are FRESHWATER for nitrates.

OK. Does anyone recommend other test kits for nitrates aside from Salifert?

 

[jackson6745]

I tried a few and Salifert was the best out of elos, red sea, and API.

 

[-Logzor]

I tried a few and Salifert was the best out of elos, red sea, and API.

Thanks for the feedback. I was wondering about ELOS.

Has anyone used the new NYOS kit?

 

[Aqua fire/medic]

Have only heard good things about salifert

 

[SaltwaterAq Verified Sponsor]

I did last night. Easier to read then my Salifert, I love the dual vials and comparison chart.

NYOS - Our Brands

 

[-Logzor]

I did last night. Easier to read then my Salifert, I love the dual vials and comparison chart.

NYOS - Our Brands

I saw the video and it looked really easy compared to Salifert. The price was also similar.

 

[saltyphish]

Agreed! Looks simpler than salifert. Esp. for someone with a bit of red colorblindness wife might appreciate the change up.

I saw the video and it looked really easy compared to Salifert. The price was also similar.

 

[-Logzor]

Agreed! Looks simpler than salifert. Esp. for someone with a bit of red colorblindness wife might appreciate the change up.

Now if I can find a NYOS kit somewhere with free shipping

BRS has a $10 off deal but doesn't carry NYOS. Amazon Prime has Salifert.