Salifert phosphate test kit

[21reefstreet]

I received a new salifert phosphate test kit today. I have been using api phosphate test kit but can't get a good reading below 0.25 , so I switched to salifert. First I noticed the PO4-2 reagent (crystals), looks like moist salt, sticking together...is this normal for this test kit?
I tested my main display tank and got 0 phosphates, but then I checked my quarantine tank and got 0 phosphates, so I checked my regular tap water and got 0 phosphates...I am wondering if this kit is bad, I find it hard to believe my tap water has zero phosphates. Has anyone else come across this issue. All other parameters on DT are in check.
I use salifert for cal, kh,,mag, and nitrates without issue.
Thanks

 

[saltyhog]

IMO this kit has trouble detecting PO4 in the range critical to our tanks. I have never gotten anything but ZERO with this test even when other tests showed my level as high as 0.12.

I love Salifert test kits but this is one I don't use any more. I'm sure there are other test kits that are good for PO4 but I just use Hanna ULR for it now.

 

[PatW]

From what I hear, none of the tests are sensitive enough to give a reliable reading except the Hanna tests.

I had an initial reading from the Hanna. The dry rock leached phosphates. All of my subsequent tests read zero. The succession of algal blooms must have tied up the phosphates. I used GFO to defeat the algae.

Now just using a bioassay works as well as anything. That bioassay is just monitoring the algae on the rocks, sand and glass. I want some algal but not much.

 

[Gary67]

I received a new salifert phosphate test kit today. I have been using api phosphate test kit but can't get a good reading below 0.25 , so I switched to salifert. First I noticed the PO4-2 reagent (crystals), looks like moist salt, sticking together...is this normal for this test kit?
I tested my main display tank and got 0 phosphates, but then I checked my quarantine tank and got 0 phosphates, so I checked my regular tap water and got 0 phosphates...I am wondering if this kit is bad, I find it hard to believe my tap water has zero phosphates. Has anyone else come across this issue. All other parameters on DT are in check.
I use salifert for cal, kh,,mag, and nitrates without issue.
Thanks

i would have to say your correct i just tested my water o.1 for drinking and 0.25 for PO 4 fish tank maybe get a Hanna this weekend have a good night