API Test Kit Big Discrepency

I have been dosing calcium due to the fact that my API test kit has shown 320ppm--after 2 weeks of dosing and dripping kalk it only came up to 340ppm. I found that strange. I picked up another identical kit at another lfs cause I was running low--I accidentally used the new kit and it said 460ppm.I re-performed both tests on both kits twice and same results. I called API cause there are no dates, only lot numbers. They answered on the second ring. (Impressive). They were very nice and said to send the test kit and they would confirm which kit is correct, also send me a new fresh kit. I am not bashing API's products--In fact I really like them. Never had a problem before. Just a reminder that if something seems wierd, check your kits.

 

The expiration date is in the lot #. Take a look at this thread. Luna

http://www.3reef.com/forums/water-chemistry/those-who-use-api-test-kits-fyi-48335.html

 

Thanks for the info Luna---Well according to that info the newer kit (08) is the one that is reading extremely low. The other kit, which I suspect is correct was made in 07. They say that the calcium kit is good for three years after manufacture, so these kits have not expired. I'll have to send it in and see what they come up with.

 

dont know how that smiley got in there but it is supposed to be 08

 

WOW!!!! I checked the exp date on my API and it is 9/2004!!! And I bought them in May 2008!!! I am not happy. No wonder I never had nitrites. Good Lord. Thanks to whoever started this thread and to Luna for clueing me in. K+ to both.

 

I always order my kits from fosters and smith. Seem to be pretty fresh And always keep two of the same test kits. That way if something is off you can varify the results. And I have also called API. I recieved awesome service as well. Turns out one of my kits was expired as well. They replaced it for me anyways (really cool).

 

Truly.....I will check it out and call them. See what I can get.

 

Yeah I ran across this link a while ago, very useful information!

 

Mine were ready to expire in a few months.

 

Me too, better get some more...