Dozey

I haven't been using the API test kits for very long. The instructions are clear enough. Add drops wait 5 minutes, read results.

Easy enough enless you are like me. I get distracted easily. I have forgotten all about it for as much as 20 minutes.

Does anyone know if extended time can corrupt the tests?

For the record I did call API's 1-800 number to ask them this very question. I sure hope someone here knows the answer.

pinkfloydpuffer

I've noticed that sometimes it changes a bit with the ammonia test, but I haven't seen the nitrate test be affected by the passage of time.

Minnow

When I do my tests, I always set a timer for the five minutes. That way, I hear the timer go off and I know it's been exactly five minutes. It works very well for me.

Also, sometimes I forget to rinse out my test tubes for a while, and in my experience, the color does darken as time goes on.

Sasukii

Just out of personal curiosity on this one, I tried it... I noted the test results at five minutes, and then let it sit... My readings remained the same, so personally I think they require five minutes minimum to get an accurate reading. Don't take my word on it though, I'm a noob!

Dozey

Thanks folks this all helps. I'm planning a gravel change so I'll pick up an egg timer while I'm out purchasing panty hose for them.

Dozey

Sorry I actually had two questions about these testers. The second question deals with the Ammonia tester specifically. I really have a hard time determining between the 0 and 0.25 indicators. My wife and I have debated is it yellow or is it green? And that can change depending on what light we look at it under.

We usually decide it’s somewhere between zero and 0.25. How yellow should yellow be? Should it really be that very bright yellow that the indicator card shows?

Minnow

I have the same problem. One of my tanks is still cycling, and I have trouble telling the difference between 0 and .25. Usually, if it looks a little greenish and you're not sure, I would say it's between the two. I have found that if I do a test on my other cycled tank and compare the two, the cycled tank shows up as the yellow on the indicator card. If you are still not sure, you can find a friend with a cycled tank and test their water, and you will see how yellow the tube should be.

Dozey

Thanks Minnow, it helps to know I'm not alone. This is a rescued tank that was not at all cared for when I got it. So I'm trying to get things back to normal with fish in. Could I use city tap water to test for Ammonia?

Minnow

You mean for comparison? You could, just be careful- some tap water has ammonia in it, which is why my cycle is taking so long. The tank needs to grow enough bacteria to deal with the ammonia from the tap along with the ammonia my fish produce.

That was good of you to rescue the tank I'm sure the fish really appreciate your effort and care.

Dozey

Minnow,

Also good to know. I should test the tap water to see if it has ammonia in it or not. Would be worth knowing that when I do water changes.

Thanks for the words of encouragement. I know for sure the 5” cichlid is thrilled with me for rescuing him/her. I’ve named him “Eddie” (from the TV show Frasier) because he never stops staring at me. It’s like I have a fish shadow. No mater where I move in the room Eddie follows me. Very kewl and at the same time a little weird too. I think Eddie has a thing for me and it’s making the wife jealous.

Minnow

Eddie sounds like he has a great personality Good luck with the tank!