Nitrate Test Kits

[Jon123]

Does anyone know if these "expire"? My kit is about 2, mabe 3 years old and Ive been getting readings of 'undetectable' lately. I dont see anything on the box/booklet saying how long they are usable for.

thanks,

Jon

[Ivy]

Yes, they definitely expire. I've had an issue with an expired test reading 300+ on my tank, where Salifert tests said ~20. I've used AP, Tetra, Hagen and Salifert, and have to say that the Salifert tests are worth the extra money. They list expiry dates and the owner of the company has a forum on reefcentral for asking questions. Very convenient. :)

That said, maybe your nitrates ARE undetectable. It's possible..
hth
ivy

[Bayside Corals]

All test kits will expire at some time. A good test kit will have an expiary date listed on it.

I have Salifert, and Elos test kits in stock. Both of which are very good brand names.

Thank You,
Colby
________
Exteme Q (http://vaporizer.org)

[Jon123]

Hmm good to know. I assumed they did expire at some point. Does anyone now what the average lifespan of a kit is? Im using a Hagen kit and Im having a hard time believing that the nitrates are undetectable. I cant cross-check it because my fresh tank is planted and only has trace nitrate at best anyways. Mabe Ill pickup a new kit before I head back to Moose Jaw for xmas break.

Jon

[Invigor]

I find Hagen kits are good when they're new, but go bad within a few months.

[Jon123]

I find Hagen kits are good when they're new, but go bad within a few months.

I find them extremely inaccurate. Do 1 test a day for 7 days in a row and look at your results. Youll probably get 3 different readings. But for a fish-only tank all I need is a ballpark range so they are fine.

Jon