Fishless Cycle Seems To Be Struggling

[smithy387]

My pH test bottle (API) has a lot number on the front top right hand side of the label and i have read somewhere that the last 2 numbers on that is the year it was made and that API test solutions last for 3 years. Well the last 2 number on my pH bottle is 06 so it could possibly be out of date. I think i will go and buy another pH test kit just incase my kit is out of date.

 

[waterdrop]

My pH test bottle (API) has a lot number on the front top right hand side of the label and i have read somewhere that the last 2 numbers on that is the year it was made and that API test solutions last for 3 years. Well the last 2 number on my pH bottle is 06 so it could possibly be out of date. I think i will go and buy another pH test kit just incase my kit is out of date.

API has some stange lot number formula that someone documented on a thread on TFF somewhere. Also, can't remember if I've heard but it could easily be that pH test solutions last pretty long.. still, obviously it wouldn't hurt to refresh your situation with another kit.

~~waterdrop~~

 

[OldMan47]

The last 4 digits are month and year of manufacture. If I recall correctly, all of the chemical tests were good for 3 or more years. A few were good for 4 years.

 

[smithy387]

I have just done another pH test and it's looking good. pH=7.6

Is there any point in doing another GH/KH test?

The lot number on my pH test bottle is - 28C0706 which would mean it's 3 years old this month.

 

[waterdrop]

The 7.6 was again without adding bicarb?

 

[smithy387]

Sorry again.

I added 8 tablespoons of Bicarbonate soda about 20 minutes ago then tested the water.

 

[waterdrop]

Ah, ok, great, its beginning to have an effect.

You've got the KH kit now, I'd just add that test to your usual battery of tests, although you don't really need it every day necessarily. I just find it fun to watch KH and pH together to get more of a feel for how things seem to work in my tank.. that is, during a fishless cycle like this.

~~waterdrop~~