Test Kits VS Checkers. Lookin For Input

rastaangel · #1 10-14-2011, 02:44 AM

I am almost outta test kits so im at the point ill need more soon so I am out to see what everyone has to say about the new hanna cal, alk and mag checkers and if they are really that much better and worth the extra money over a elso test kit?

toxic111 · #2 10-14-2011, 02:52 AM

I love my Hanna checkers (alk, & phos so far) easy to use, and accurate to boot

intarsiabox · #3 10-14-2011, 03:44 AM

The advantage of the Checkers is that you get a definative answer on a test result rather than trying to match up a test tube to a color chart. So wheteher it's more accurate or not depends on an individuals skill on using standard test kits as Elos is of very good quality as well.

syncro · #4 10-14-2011, 04:42 AM

From Advanced Aquarist:
Product Review: Inexpensive Analytical Devices: Hanna Instruments' Checkers: Alkalinity and Phosphate
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2011/8/review

doch · #5 10-14-2011, 04:55 AM

I've tried several varieties of test kits with mixed results. I absolutely love the hanna's. I'm still growing to get used to the Ca one, but the Alk and the PO4 are supreme!! I find that with the Calcium one, you need to be VERY precise with your measurements in order to get proper results. I've used the same methods for 3 tests in a row and got results form 305-520. I'm starting to get used to it though. I've got my lines down pat, and methods perfected... sort of. I'm starting to trust it more and more.

Alk and PO4... wicked!!

Magnesium... not released yet is it?

Funky_Fish14 · #6 10-14-2011, 06:19 AM

So far I have hanna phos and alk checkers, with calcium on order. Alk and phos are great!

Quote:

Originally Posted by syncro

From Advanced Aquarist:
Product Review: Inexpensive Analytical Devices: Hanna Instruments' Checkers: Alkalinity and Phosphate
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2011/8/review

Great article to have linked, syncro! Thanks!

Myka · #7 10-14-2011, 05:33 PM

There have been reports that some(?) calcium checkers are way out to lunch, but the alkalinity and phosphate ones are getting lots of good reviews.

doch · #8 10-14-2011, 05:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Myka

There have been reports that some(?) calcium checkers are way out to lunch, but the alkalinity and phosphate ones are getting lots of good reviews.

I'm not ready to say this for sure, but I feel like the Calcium checkers take a little getting used to. After a few more tests I'm going to test to a known solution, and see what my results are.

Myka · #9 10-14-2011, 05:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by doch

I'm not ready to say this for sure, but I feel like the Calcium checkers take a little getting used to.

What is there to get used to? I haven't used one.

blacknife · #10 10-14-2011, 06:23 PM

I have alk anda phosphate. Both are great.
regular alk testing is simple,fast,and cheap, but. hanna's decimaal readings are Helping nail Down more frequent smaller dosages.

Phosphate i could never get an accurate reading and i am really glad i got it.