Testing Kits

[Doohic722]

Hey everybody, im on to my next step. I got through the struggle of deciding on getting my future friends a Magnum350 pro for my 55 gallon tank

Now I need to know what testing kits I will want/need. I see there are all kinds of things to test for and different methods of testing. I am a beginner and Im gradually getting things all together to start up my tank.

what are the necessities?
test for
-ammonia
-ph
-nitrate
Im not even sure about the rest.

looking to have a successful tank to beable to share with everyone? lmk what you think

 

[Gibbo]

You need test kits for Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate and pH. These are the necessities. You can buy a kit with all these in, works out better value for money. Some people also go for kH (Carbonate Hardness) and gH (General Hardness) as well but these are more important for African Lake and Planted setups.

 

[Doohic722]

ok Gibbo, that sounds great, I have soft water so I dont think I will have to worry about testing for hardness, before I really get going I will take a water sample to the lfs, they can test for all that stuff right? hopefully for free

Also, do you know of any kits off hand that I could pick up? If not I'll just do some searching around

thanks again

 

[sgtbirch]

I got a testing kit that tests for Ph.kh,gh ammionia amd nitrites for 20 bucks at pet supplies plus. I also have a magnum 350 thats a great filter.

 

[Doohic722]

so it doesnt have one included for nitrates?
if not how much for that test alone?

My nearest pet supplies plus store is in amherst ny, are they gonna have the same price?

i already ordered my Magnum but im curiouse... how much are you guys selling it for?

thanks

 

[Great Lakes]

Hate to tell you this Doohic, if you have soft water a hardness test is needed. Hardness and ph are hand in glove. If your water is too soft, your ph will not be as stable. Tetra also makes a complete kit with everything you need.

 

[Doohic722]

Ok, Ok, GL do you work for these companies or what

trying to get me to spend all my money

I'll go find me a tetra kit, unless anyone thinks I should test for anything else

Thanks though GL, cause like you have read I do have soft water so Im glad you filled me in.

off to tetra land I go.... weeeeeee