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  1. #1
    Members commander's Avatar
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    PH Test Kit/meter recommendations

    Ok, I have read through most of the discussions here concerning ph testing, the various methods and available equipment but what I would like is a concise recommendation on a test kit and meter. Anyone, please?
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  2. #2
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    Re: PH Test Kit/meter recommendations

    get an api master test kit.. this gives you ph, ammonia, nitrites and nitrate readings..

  3. #3
    Moderator urbanfarmer's Avatar
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    Re: PH Test Kit/meter recommendations

    Quote Originally Posted by keith_r
    get an api master test kit.. this gives you ph, ammonia, nitrites and nitrate readings..
    This is cheap and good for most our purposes. Try to find the kit with the "WIDE PH" test instead of the 2 separate pH (low/high) test. It's just more convenient.

  4. #4
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    Re: PH Test Kit/meter recommendations

    Yes, the API master test kit is the most useful for cycling
    and for aquaponics generally.

    I've been drooling over the latest generation of pen-style pH testers.
    Ebay has lots of these for sale starting at $10,
    with two buffer solutions and a little screwdriver and shipping included.
    Actually, the pH/moisture/light meters for hydroponics
    begin at $3.81 with free shipping!!
    Has anyone here tried these amazingly cheap instruments?
    When I was in university
    (and that seems like only a few weeks ago)
    pH testers were temperamental, expensive,
    and too fragile for freshmen to touch.
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  5. #5
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    Re: PH Test Kit/meter recommendations

    Quote Originally Posted by Shas
    Yes, the API master test kit is the most useful for cycling
    and for aquaponics generally.

    I've been drooling over the latest generation of pen-style pH testers.
    Ebay has lots of these for sale starting at $10,
    with two buffer solutions and a little screwdriver and shipping included.
    Actually, the pH/moisture/light meters for hydroponics
    begin at $3.81 with free shipping!!
    Has anyone here tried these amazingly cheap instruments?
    When I was in university
    (and that seems like only a few weeks ago)
    pH testers were temperamental, expensive,
    and too fragile for freshmen to touch.

    Shas

    Since I am a total newbie to this, I am going with the general recommendations on the Master Text Kit from API. However, Since I am always looking for new and improved, once I get a little experience under my belt I think it would be worthwhile to get some of the cheap (relatively) test equipment you have mentioned and run them in tandem to see how they compare.
    My old man says when it's time to be counted, the important thing is to be man enough to stand up.”
    ? Robert A. Heinlein, Between Planets

  6. #6
    Moderator urbanfarmer's Avatar
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    Re: PH Test Kit/meter recommendations

    I have a cheapo pen-style pH tester. It seems I have to calibrate it before every use and during use! Once you get used to it being finicky you can get a fairly decent number you can be sure of. It's just faster and easier than using the API test kit and is just as accurate.

    I would still start out with the chemical test kit.

  7. #7
    Moderator jackalope's Avatar
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    Re: PH Test Kit/meter recommendations

    I've always used the API Test Kit, rather than the electronics, which are not always reliable - just my personal opinion!
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  8. #8
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    Re: PH Test Kit/meter recommendations

    Quote Originally Posted by urbanfarmer
    I have a cheapo pen-style pH tester. It seems I have to calibrate it before every use and during use! Once you get used to it being finicky you can get a fairly decent number you can be sure of. It's just faster and easier than using the API test kit and is just as accurate.

    I would still start out with the chemical test kit.
    This is exactly why i knew i shouldnt buy one!

    API master test kit for me
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  9. #9
    Moderator urbanfarmer's Avatar
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    Re: PH Test Kit/meter recommendations


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