Which Test Kit?

[StuartLarge]

I have been using the tetra liquid test kits (one for nitrite,one for ammonia) I have been doing tests every 12 hours as I want to keep on top of the water condition. I also have the king british dip test which I use once a week. I am nearing the end of the liquid kits and after being advised by my local lfs that the API master is not really necessary as I have not had any issues with the water in my tank since the beginning and to stick to what I have presently. With that in mind I though I would by another ammonia and nitrite test kit. Looking on Ebay as they seem to be the cheapest and found a few different manufacturers. Can anyone recommend a particular kit? what do you guys use (and how often?)

 

[StandbySetting]

Salifert, once a week, they're more accurate than the API kit you mentioned, but there are more steps in them than there are in the API kit, they're easy to use though.

Saying that though if your tank is pretty stable I personally feel that there is no need to test, I haven't done so for 9 months on my current set up, because it's stable and mature and I've never had any problems with it.

 

[MICKEYSWIFT]

You should always keep on top of water changes in the tank and never presume your water is fine, the advice from your local fish shop was wrong.
I use API FRESHWATER MASTER TEST KIT, you can pick these up for around £20 - £30. I find with this sort of buy you get all what you need and its cheaper doing it this way than buying the individual test kits. (But always check your water or you may regret doing so!)

 

[StuartLarge]

MY bad Mickey, I worded my post wrongly. My LFS didn't tell me not to bother testing, just that the API was more than I needed considering the lack of water issues I have had so far (touch wood) I fully intend to keep regularly testing for ever more and think far too much of my fish to ever assume its ok.

 

[Tizer]

i think you will find "most" people here use the API kit, £18 delivered on ebay.

 

[StuartLarge]

Done. API master kit for £20.95 (cheapest I could find)