Tester Kits

[solmartin]

Curious as to what tester kits are necessary for tanks. pH, and nitrate i know, but what else?

 

[corrosive]

Ammonia, nitrite are another two.

 

[_]im]

are nitrate testers really essential or can you just gauge how long those cycles are and know when that cycle is over by increased ammonia?

 

[SilverDollar_03]

Must have: pH, Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate

Would be good to have: GH, KH

 

[Chasing Puck]

The length of time for ammonia and nitrites varies--it will not occur in a set number of days. And, they are good to have to test the water in case things start going screwy. Nitrates, unless you have a heavily planted tank, will be present in all tanks but those with very, very light stocking and frequent water changes.

I consider pH, GH, KH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates to be essential for most tanks. Phosphates can be useful if you have algae concerns.

 

[astroboy]

Aquarium Pharmacuticals makes a good freshwater master kit.
It includes PH (high and low), ammonia, nitrite and nitrate.
All you need in my opinion