Testing for phosphates and nitrates in an established aquarium

[Joe Rice]

0.74 today. Thinking the GFO is getting saturated.

 

[Joe Rice]

I’ve found that the vials for the Hannah test can give high readings if they are not perfectly clean. I always rinse the vials out with ro after each test. Each time I test I rinse the outside with ro and wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.

Another thing I try to do is to always insert the vial into the tester in the same orientation - with the "10ml" printing facing forward. That way if there is a smudge on the glass, it'll be the same smudge during the calibration reading (before adding the reagent) and the final reading.

 

[GobyWanKenobie]

I haven't tested in a long time, but now that I'm having a problem, I realize my nitrates are climbing. I added one more fish that has wreaked havoc with my tank, but I like him in there so I'm trying to find a balance. Now, I'm trying to figure out how to reduce and manage my nitrates without weekly water changes.

 

[salthobby]

just tested for the first time in a month I know nitrates over 300

View attachment 190976

Are you sure that's the ULR checker? Mine says ULR after the word Phosphate

 

[Casino]

Are you sure that's the ULR checker? Mine says ULR after the word Phosphate

Correct. The Ultra Low Range will have ULR on it. He has the Low Range Po4 checker.

 

[Casino]

Another thing I try to do is to always insert the vial into the tester in the same orientation - with the "10ml" printing facing forward. That way if there is a smudge on the glass, it'll be the same smudge during the calibration reading (before adding the reagent) and the final reading.

For those vials that the wording has disappeared I drew a small arrow with a sharpie on the cap. Also don't trust the 10ml mark on those vials as they are notoriously wrong. Always use a 10ml syringe.

 

[SteveDola]

Always use a 10 ml syringe for measurements on testing to be accurate. Good call Casino

 

[Joe Rice]

Phosphate down to 0.28 today. Started GFO after March 9 and replaced with new GFO after March 30.

 

[SteveDola]

any difference in coloring or appearance

 

[Joe Rice]

any difference in coloring or appearance

Not as far as I can tell