Shelf life of test kits?

I use API liquid tests, and I just realized that I've had some of them for 2 years now. Still give normal results. How long do the test liquids last for?

 

I use API liquid tests, and I just realized that I've had some of them for 2 years now. Still give normal results. How long do the test liquids last for?

good question.. we've had a kit since jan and are about out of nitrates drops, low on ammonia.. none of your bottles have a date on them? I think we'll keep the bottles until the nitrates run out, since we just get the master kits.

 

Generally they last less thank 2 years. Most are dated nowadays.

 

My pH, Ammonia, and Nitrite tests are probably over 2 years old ... oops. But they seem to be still measuring my levels very accurately. I guess I still have my Ammonia and Nitrite test because once you've cycled your tank and do not overstock it, as well as perform your regular water changes, then there are very little chances of having any Ammonia and Nitrite spikes. I don't test my water for Ammonia and Nitrite as often as I test it for Nitrate. I test for Nitrate before and after every water change (meaning every week).

 

I just routinely test the 3 levels and as we get more tanks, the kits won't last as long.. nitrates do run out first, then ammonia and you'll still have plenty of nitrites and ph tests left when they do. I guess we'll keep ours for the 2 years, since that seems to be a safe time period for them.