New PH test kit, Way off from Liquid test

IMO a ph swing for .2 or less is perfectly fine. But if you ph is swining from 8.3 at the end of the day (right before lights out) to 7.9 at the beginning of the day (right before lights on,) that is too much. There are many things to effect ph. Take a look at this article. http://advancedaquarist.com/issues/june2002/chem.htm

 

I would much rather depend on a probe then a liquid color test kit. My pH goes all over the place if I am burning my ventless fireplace in the basement. I have seen mine as low as 7.79 in the early morning. You also have to remember that your house is shut up in the winter time and you have no way for the CO2 to get out of the house. This will bring pH down from lack of oxygen.

 

I knew I should have taken Chem in High School...

Thanks for the info all.

I guess my numbers are good the way they are now. I must say that looking at a meter beats testing the water any day..

 

Red Sea does not have the best rep for being accurate, the Probes have the best accuracy IMO. Where did you find your unit and how much? if you don't mind me asking. I've been looking for one for some time but don't really want to shell out that kind of money quite yet...