water test kits?

[sharkboy]

I am looking for suggestions on which test kits are best? I am getting ready to startup my new tank (215). I know I will need to test for Nitrites, Nitrates, Ammonia to start with...What else should I test for? I have been running a sml 30 gal for over 2 years and the only thing I check is salinity and pH. I haven't had any problems with it. Suggestions on specific brands will be helpful.

[cbianco]

I personally use a Aquarium Pharmecutical (sp?) test kit. Very inexpensive but it works just fine when dealing with the basics.

Christopher

[NaCl_H2O]

I like Salifert, maybe a bit more complex to use, but also more accurate and repeatable. Only problem currently is supply is currently low. These come from an overseas mfg, Switzerland maybe?

[GaryP]

Salifert is made in Holland. They are good kits. Pretty much the gold standard. I personally like the Seachem kits too. Pretty much the same, but more tests for the dollar.

If you are going to be running a reef tank, I would suggest adding Calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium kits to your collection. That's about all I test for on a routine basis. The exception is if I suspect there may be a problem or after some sort of system upset. I don't routinely test for pH anymore. From experience I know that if my alkalinity is where it needs to be, the pH will follow.

[Jimnorris]

Sharkboy,
I just went thru the cycle in my new tank. I have a complete kit Aquarium Parmecutical. Tests for PH, ammonia, nitrites and nitrates.
I now will use Salifert test kits for calcium, ph, alk and mag.
If you like I will give you the Aquarium Parmecutical test kit?????
You than can monitor your new tank. When you done just send it back to me so I can pass it on to others.
Jim

[sharkboy]

Thanks Jim, I sent you a pm.

[tony]

I personally use a Aquarium Pharmecutical (sp?) test kit. Very inexpensive but it works just fine when dealing with the basics.

Christopher

i use the same