hydometer question

what is the best salinity tester to buy? we currently have a deep six coralife

 

I use the instant ocean..everything is alive and well so I'm assuming it works!

 

same here!

 

i think a refractometer would be the best you could, as far as the brand i couldnt help you.
as i just use a swing arm hydrometer

 

thats what i thought but dont have the cash

 

They aren't too expensive. $30 will buy you a very nice refractometer. Save and get one, it will be one of the best purchases you can make for your tank

 

the cheapest thing to do is take your hydrometer to your LFS or anyone who has a retractometer..test with the refractometer..then with your hydrometer and if it's off any you can just know to add or subtract whatever amount. I usually do this once per month. mine reads slightly lower

 

Well said. One of the most important parameters for a reef, it's worth it. ;D

 

Marinedepot.com makes a really good one that is pretty darn cheap too

 

Our reef club used to do this monthly. We would bring in some water and people with hydrometers would check the water (which we've already checked with a refractometer) and they could tell if their hydrometer is off or not.

I've run across hydrometers that are off BY A LOT many times because they did not rinse their hydrometers after each use. They just let the saltwater evaporate leaving salt deposit on the swing arm and inside the unit itself.