How often do you test?

[WarDog]

Got a bit lazy and busy the last couple weeks and have only tested once a week. Just wondering what others are doing.

[WarDog]

Damn, forgot the poll!

Brad or Keener, pls delete and I'll try again later lol.

[Reef Pilot]

I test alk and Ca every 2 or 3 days (unless I am away). N03 every month or so (always zero). P04 every 3 weeks or so, to see if my GFO needs changing or turning. Mg just before every water change to see if it needs topping up a bit. Salinity is tested before and after water changes. That's about it...

[WarDog]

At what point (my tank is almost 4 months old) does testing for No2 become a waste of time, if ever? Can the same be asked of ammonia?

And just a FYI, my ammonia badge fell and was dragged under the rocks by a serpant star. Is this dangerous?

[Reef Pilot]

Originally Posted by WarDog

At what point (my tank is almost 4 months old) does testing for No2 become a waste of time, if ever? Can the same be asked of ammonia?

Once your tank has cycled and you have N03, nitrites and ammonia should stay at or near zero, so no need to test further. Unless you have something bad happen, like a tank crash,... but then you will have more to worry about than just testing.

[WarDog]

I am currently knocking on wood. Thanks.

[Aquattro]

I test Ca and Alk once or twice a month. NO3 and PO4 weekly for now, until I get nutrients back in check. NH3 and NO2, never. Those are just for start up. After, if you have NH3, you know it

[Trigger Man]

what is this testing you guys speak of? Water changes for me, and later on when I get more SPS then I'll be testing Cal, KH until everything is dialed in.

[MKLKT]

I test every 2-3 months... maybe.

[gobytron]

for me, after 15 years of reefing or so, no sps = no testing.

Testing helps, but it's not necessary for a successful reef.

Weekly, regular water changes really eliminates the need for it.