Note that the API Freshwater Master Test Kit reads the total nitrate (NO3) level in parts per million ( ppm). Nitrate Test Directions Add 10 drops from Nitrate Test Solution #1, holding the dropper bottle upside down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops. Testing for the presence of toxic nitrite is essential, so that if it is detected, steps can be taken to remove it. If left untreated, nitrite in the water will hinder normal fish respiration, eventually leading to fish death. Even small amounts or low levels of nitrite stress fish, suppressing their immune systems and increasing the likelihood of disease, which is why it’s important to test for nitrite using API FRESHWATER MASTER TEST KIT. You can remove nitrite from your tank by performing a partial water change.

API Freshwater Master Test Kit - Maidenhead Aquatics - Fishkeeper

The ammonia test reads both ammonia and ammonium: The test does not differentiate between Ammonia (NH3) and Ammonium (NH4). It reads the total of both compounds that are present in your aquarium water. There is a big difference between the two. Ammonia is the waste product that your fish produce. Levels of ammonia above 0 ppm are not healthy for fish and inverts. Ammonium is ammonia that is ionized; it is not as toxic to fish. Ammonia converts to ammonium in acidic water. I have observed that our straight tap water contains ammonium. I discovered this when I rescaped our tank and put entirely new water in the aquarium. The API test returned a slight reading of ammonia; unexpected in a tank with plenty of beneficial bacteria and new water. All this to say, be aware of sources of non-lethal ammonium in your aquarium that may be influencing test results.This testing kit is accurate, fast, and reliable, so you can depend on the results you’re getting. You can use the testing kit, even if you have no previous experience with chemicals or using testing kits. I am very happy with the accuracy observed. I get consistent results that I can trust. As long as you follow instructions, you will be rewarded with accurate results.

API Freshwater Master Test Kit (+Solutions) How To Use an API Freshwater Master Test Kit (+Solutions)

You don’t have to test all the parameters each time. I usually only test for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. The PH tests I sometimes perform by themselves, but I have not found the results from the PH tests to be helpful to me, so I usually skip them. Note that unless you come up with another test tube, the four provided with the kit will not allow you to perform all the testing at the same time; you will need to choose either the low or high range ph test. This shouldn’t be a problem; after you test once side by side, you should have an idea of which range applies to your tank. My only previous knowledge of aquarium water testing was with test strips. These still exist and are a good option for those that want a simple test kit. It is as easy as dipping strips of test paper directly into the aquarium for a time, removing the strip to wait for a time, then comparing the colors to a provided color chart. The advantage is the simplicity. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable freshwater testing kit, you should look no further. Taking a few minutes each week to maintain and monitor aquarium conditions is the key to a healthy aquarium. The FRESHWATER MASTER TEST KIT tests the parameters that affect the health of freshwater fish: pH, High Range pH, Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate. The FRESHWATER MASTER TEST KIT is highly accurate and economical, and includes a computer calibrated, laminated color card, 4 test tubes and holding tray. The FRESHWATER MASTER TEST KIT comes with a complete, step-by-step instruction booklet, including information on how to correct unsafe water conditions.There’s a chart that explains all the steps that you need to follow while testing for different parameters. Note that the API Freshwater Master Test Kit reads the total nitrite (NO2) level in parts per million ( ppm). Nitrite Test Directions