Well, if your ultimate goal is to incorporate a controller as your system develops and expands...or if you plan on a new addition or upgrading your reef system in size: you can definitely consider a controller. After extensive research, I decided on the GHL’s Profilux 4e. Prior to that I relied upon API test too. In fact, I still rely upon API for my other testing parameters (until the highly anticipated GHL ion is released).
Like others indicated, your ph fluctuates throughout the day. I love the ability to look at my Profilux 4e’s screen or the GHL app from my phone to check my system’s parameters. I travel more than I did several years ago and the ability to incorporate technology into my hobby is a personal win-win for me.
Just the other day my pH was a littler lower than usual. I knew it was probably from a buildup of CO2 in the room with everyone back home staying put together all under one roof, so I just opened up a window. It naturally adjusted the ph back within a few hours. I’m sure I learned to do this from a a member here on our forum. Imagine me testing or seeing the low ph swing and freaking out on how to correct it. Most of us would rush to get some ph correction solution, not knowing none is really needed. In any case, I thoroughly enjoy my controller. I plan on adding additional equipment to it as my system grows and develops. I use it to monitor my system and for some controllability. Most of all, I love the stability of GHL products, the ease of logging in on my app from anywhere on the planet to view parameters and to compare my system’s parameters over time. The GHL community here is growing and very helpful.
On the other hand, if you want to manually check your system from time to time, like other fellow reefers have suggested, a handheld ph monitor is a nice affordable way to go. Best of Luck with your decision. Either way, this hobby is sooooo cool!
