Water Testers

[dream250578]

Hi,

I was just wondering what people’s experiences were with the different types of testing kits available. I have generally been using the Liquid Testing kits, however I have just come across 'Test Strips'. These seem alot easier to use and quicker, I was just wondering if any one else has used them and how they found them.

Any info appreciated

Cheers

 

[Bloo]

I haven't found the test strips nearly as accurate as individual tests and prefer to use the API liquid tests.

 

[rdd1952]

I prefer the liquid tests but as you said the strips are easier. I think that once a tank is established and stable (probably a year old) that the strips would be fine as water testing isn't nearly as critical as for a new tank. I currently have both and sometimes just use the strips. If I see something that doesn't look right on there, I use the liquid tests to get more accurate results.

 

[BigC]

After many years of using liquid test kits, I tried tetra's tab (strips) and I diden't like them at all. I prefered the liquid tests. I test for pH using a electronic pH tester, I have a large controller permanently set up in my main aquarium. For quickness when changing water I use a smaller hand held pH meter & still use liquid tests for GH, KH etc.

 

[SarahBravo]

Hmmm, I did all my first cycling tests with strips.... when i ran out i got a different brand and got totally different results. So i took my water into my lfs, and bought myself a liquid test kit, and both me and the LFS made my Ph 8.4, and not 7.4 and 6.5, which is what the paper test strips said. Never used 'em since, and never will... I think it's too easy for them to get damp, or to get held in the water for half a second too long. I also used to find that the colours for the Amm, Ni, NA etc used to bleed into each other... not good! But maybe i was just using crummy brands, if someone on here recommends a really good one, it's up to you.

 

[Iron Man]

My 'strips' worked fine until summer came and it got humid and hot and they were ruined.....the measurements were WAY off what they were supposed to be and I just happened to have some liquid test kits to confirm it.

I've never used any since either....and never will.

 

[Booboo puppy]

These are discouraging words--I really like the strips. Haven't used the liquids this time around. Wasn't consistent about testing before with them though. Strips are a lot easier, but if the accuracy is in question...

 

[Synirr]

I ran out of testing materials a few months ago and have yet to buy any more
I just don't test anymore... I do regular water changes, and when I did test my readings were always very consistent, so I'm just not buying any more tests unless something goes wrong in a tank and I think I need them...
Liquids are definitely better than strips, though