What test kits to buy

booth2010 · Jan 7, 2014

I have had my tank setup for a few months now. I want it to be a reef tank (only have 2 mushrooms and a torch in it now along with 2 fish and some cleaners). Anyways what are some good test kits to use, I normally take my wter to the pet store and they test it but everyone here always says I should get more exact readings... sooo what should I use?

mfinn · Jan 7, 2014

Depends on what you want to keep.
If you just want to stay with soft corals, there really isn't any need to test. Just keep up with regular and steady water changes.
My 240 has been setup for 6+ years and I don't test at all.

Now if you decide to get into lps or sps corals, then I would recommend getting Calcium, Alkalinity, Magnesium and possibly Phosphate kits.
I'm assuming you already have a pH test kit.
That should get you started.

JMSKI333 · Jan 7, 2014

I recommend the red sea pro foundation test kit.

booth2010 · Jan 7, 2014

I dont have any test kits because I get it tested 2-3 times a week at pet store that is by my work

mfinn · Jan 7, 2014

I should have mentioned that I've tried a couple different brands and have decided that I like Salifert .

Reefing Madness · Jan 7, 2014

API for Ammonia, Nitrites, Nitrates, ALK, and Cal
Salifert for MAG
Hanna Checker- Phosphates
Refracotmeter for SG

Mauger's Reef · Jan 11, 2014

Does anyone know the shelf life of api after the seal on the bottles are opened?

Fishface1970 · Jan 14, 2014

Mauger's Reef said:
Does anyone know the shelf life of api after the seal on the bottles are opened?

Not sure about the shelf life, but I've replaced all of my API tests with Salifert and Hannah checkers. The API results are just not accurate enough if you need to know exact measurements for dosing. Looking into Red Sea kits now as well...