Zero or Five Nitrates--what to believe

[sbaddley]

I've been using a Hagen test kit since my tank was born. After my tank cycled (about 9 weeks ago), my nitrates have been a steady five (5). A few weeks ago, I purchased an API Reef Test Kit, which includes a nitrate test, and the test has consistently come back zero (0).

Which is correct? In the long run, does it really matter if the reading is consistent?

[bertoni]

Either level likely is acceptable, but I suspect that the Hagen kit might have failed. When nitrate kits fail, they often seem to measure nitrate everywhere. It's hard to be sure, though. You could try getting a third opinion, I guess.

[sbaddley]

Either level likely is acceptable, but I suspect that the Hagen kit might have failed. When nitrate kits fail, they often seem to measure nitrate everywhere. It's hard to be sure, though. You could try getting a third opinion, I guess.

Thanks

[soulsigma]

I've been using a Hagen test kit since my tank was born. After my tank cycled (about 9 weeks ago), my nitrates have been a steady five (5). A few weeks ago, I purchased an API Reef Test Kit, which includes a nitrate test, and the test has consistently come back zero (0).

Which is correct? In the long run, does it really matter if the reading is consistent?

Take a water sample to your LFS and that will give you a confirmation back-up/third opinion.

[Aquarist007]

I would get a Salifert test kit for nitrates. It is much more accurately or finely calibrated?

[preef]

I would get a Salifert test kit for nitrates. It is much more accurately or finely calibrated?

+1

The API kit is really hard to read and is pretty course. The Salifert kit has a low level mode that allows you to read down to 0.1. The color chart is very easy to read.

[Chris27]

Or, you could not worry about it, and be happy your nitrates aren't at 40 :sleep:

[sbaddley]

Thanks all. I'll be happy that my Nitrates are not 40 and I'll get a Salifert kit.