expired api test kit

expired, inaccurate saltwater test kit (API)


so my test kit is really old. and finally replaced it today. i just ran both test and here is what i found: old kit produced in 11/2004. new 09/2009

pH: the old kit made pH look much lower then what it is. about 7.6-7.8ish
when tested with new it was 8.2-8.3 (this is what prompted me to get a new kit)

Ammonia: Older kit was slightly "greener" which made it appear to have a detectable amount. another interesting note is that the color card in the older kit has a different shade for 0. i guess to make it a little easier to read.

Nitrite: older kit was a little darker, but nothing i feel would make it hard to get an accurate read

Nitrate: both gave the same results

just thought someone might find this useful one day. i have read that most say replace after 3 years.

the best thing is to test your water frequently enough to not have to worry about them going bad;D

 

That's interesting info! I used to have a chart with the shelf life of regeants. Most were in the 3-5 year range but I feel it's best to get a new kit right around the 1 year mark.

 

Thanks for posting. Getting new test kits this week.