Mystery API ph test solved!

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aclockworkorange

Dovii
MFK Member
Jun 24, 2010
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Rose City
So, a little while back i posted this thread:

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=348483

I had just cleaned my new (used) tank out with vinegar and water, and after taking a ph reading, it was off the charts alkaline (which makes no sense, as vinegar is acidic).

I did a 100% water change (had no fish yet) and when I did the test again, the ph was like 6.8, which is what my tap is.

Well today, I took the ph level again, and it was once again off the charts! I panicked, and tried to go through a list of factors... I had recently painted the back of the tank, could that do it? The new sand? But something seemed off...

I had been testing the A, Ni and Na params on my 20 gallon right before in the same tube, as I only have 3 tubes. Well, I figured maybe I didn't rinse it out that well, and one of the other test kits had a very alkaline ingredient that causes the reaction in the test.

Bingo.

I tested again after rinsing out the tube and cap very well, and my ph was 6.8.

:irked: What a n00b!

So word to the wise, make sure you rinse those tubes extra well between tests! :drool:
 
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