I recently ran a strip pH test from Aquarium Pharmaceuticals and couldn't really make out the results. I am looking for good pH detector recommendations as a result. Preferably under $50, but not limited to that if there are really good ones that break that range. (The API one cost $18.)
Best pH detectors?
- Thread starter 1commander
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API Liquid Tests are cheap and good quality. Deciphering them can still be slightly 'iffy', though, as it's hard to distinguish some colours, particularly around the low 7's.
japes;1966877; said:
Agreed! I have to hold mine to the light at just the right angle. I still find them to be more accurate than any strip.
I think you'll find that in general, there will be a discernable increase in accuracy and clarity when you make the leap from kits which are available from the LFS or online aquarium suppliers to kits, etc., which are used in research labs. In my lab at work, I purchase equipment and supplies from VWR Scientific.....you can as well. For pH readings, I like the strips from EM Science or a hand held electronic pH meter, such as the Orion Quikchek. For ammonia, nitrate, phosphate, etc., I can recommend the Chemetrics kits.
brianp;1967166; said:
Wouldn't you be looking at a substantial increase in cost to accompany your increase in accuracy?
My fiance uses the same things in her lab work as a PLSC/Project Chemist, I just can't imagine that those things would be very cost effective for the average aquarist.
if you wanna be real fancy, you cant get a digital ph monitor. i think the Pinpoint ones go one ebay for about $80. either way, i dont think you should stress out so much trying to figure your exact ph unless the fish your keeping are really delicate. most fish can tolerate a wide range of ph levels as long as it stays constant. consistency is more important than trying to reach a certain number when it comes to ph levels
Hawkfish3.0;1967330; said:
That's a good question and I don't have a good answer. However, I also purchase the nitrite/nitrate test strips made by Jungle Labs at the LFS and they have always seemed to be rather expensive. What I can tell you is that the "laboratory-grade" stuff has always worked well for me in terms of its intended function.
brianp;1967452; said:
As well it should! I absolutely want people like my finace to have very accurate testing equipmet to work with in their labs. After all, she is testing foodservice products everyday.
I'm just thinking that for the average aquarist, products like the API master kit would be close enough. Now if you had some super delicate, highly sensitive fish that needed exact parameters, you would be wise to invest the extra coin.