Kh Vs Total Hardness (ppm)

[jpedersen024]

Looking into starting CO2. Just got a nutrafin unit, and plan to try out the DIY solution with it. Of course, I want to be able to monitor everything properly - not to throw tank out of balance. My current test kit measures nitrates, nitrites, total alkalinity, total hardness, and ph.

I know the co2 calcs that have been posted require KH readings and ph. Am I looking at having to get a new tester?

 

[simonbrown403]

In short yes, alkalinity test kits are the same thing but they read different, so a KH test kit would be needed to determine the correct levels, to work out your co2.

kH refers to alkalinity or temporary hardness these test kits test kits measure the amount of carbonate and bicarbonate ions in your water, where as GH measures Permanent hardness which is made up of ions such as nitrates, sulphates, and chlorides etc.