iDip Nitrate Test Strips

NT Labs Hardness Test Kit

NT Labs Hardness Test Kit – Comprehensive Monitoring for Your Pond’s Water Quality

Understanding KH (Carbonate Hardness): KH, also known as “total alkalinity” or “carbonate hardness,” measures the buffering capacity of your pond water. This capacity indicates how well the water can resist changes in pH.

What is the Correct KH Level? Maintain a minimum KH level of 4 dKH at all times, with a more desirable range between 6 and 8 dKH. This test kit measures KH in dKH, where one dKH equals 17.8 ppm as CaCO3.

What to Do if the KH Level is Wrong:

• Check the KH level of your tap water. Regular water changes are sufficient if the tap water KH is above 6 dKH.
• If tap water KH is below 6 dKH, use a KH buffer like KH – Buffer Up to maintain a suitable level in your pond.

How to Use the KH Test:

1. Ensure the test tube is clean.
2. Collect a 5 ml water sample into the test tube.
3. Add one drop of the KH reagent, mix, and observe the pale blue colour.
4. Continue adding drops, one by one, mixing between drops until the colour changes from blue to yellow.
5. The number of drops needed for the colour change equals the KH value in dKH.

Understanding GH (General Hardness): GH measures the total minerals dissolved in water, with water hardness ranging from ‘soft’ to ‘hard’ based on mineral content. Hard water can lead to limescale build-up.

What is the Correct GH Level? For pond fish, the ideal GH level is between 8 and 12 dGH. This test kit measures GH in dGH, where one degree equals 17.8 ppm as CaCO3.

What to Do if the GH Level is Wrong:

• Test the GH of your tap water. If too hard, consider using alternative water sources like reverse osmosis water to lower GH.
• In ponds, where rainwater may lower GH over time, use GH & Minerals Up to boost GH to a suitable level.

How to Use the GH Test:

1. Ensure the test tube is clean.
2. Collect a 5 ml water sample into the test tube.
3. Add two drops of GH A reagent, mix, and observe the dark pink colour.
4. Add one drop at a time of GH B reagent, counting the drops between mixing until the solution changes from pink to blue.
5. The number of drops needed for the colour change equals the GH value in dGH.

Maintain the balance of KH and GH in your pond with NT Labs Hardness Test Kit, ensuring optimal water quality and a healthy environment for your fish. Trust NT Labs for precise water testing solutions.

NT Labs Nitrate Test Kit

NT Labs Nitrate Test – Monitoring Your Pond’s Nitrate Levels for a Balanced Environment

Understanding Nitrate: Nitrate is a by-product of beneficial bacteria breaking down fish waste products (ammonia and nitrite) in water and filters. While not typically toxic to fish, excessively high nitrate levels (>100mg/l) can lead to growth issues.

What is the Correct Nitrate Level? The ideal nitrate level depends on factors like tap water quality, fish population, and feeding habits. Although nitrate is not typically harmful, high levels can promote algal growth. Ideally, a nitrate level of zero signifies a balance between fish waste and nutrient absorption by plant life, including algae.

What to Do if the Nitrate Level is Wrong: Maintaining a constant zero nitrate level can be challenging. Regular water changes are key to diluting nitrate build up. Pay attention to your tap water’s nitrate level, as it contributes to the overall pond nitrate.

How to Use the Nitrate Test:

1. Ensure the test tube is clean.
2. Collect a 5 ml water sample into the test tube.
3. In well-lit conditions, turn Nitrate-1 upside down and shake vigorously until there is no sediment on the bottom.
4. Add 6 drops of Nitrate-1 and 6 drops of Nitrate-2. Replace the test tube cap and shake thoroughly.
5. Wait for 10 minutes, then compare the sample colour to the provided colour scale. A colourless sample indicates zero nitrate, while any hint of pink signals nitrate presence.

Additional Information:

• The test kit reports concentration in terms of nitrogen (NO3-N) for compatibility with reported safe concentrations for fish and plants.
• If interested in the ionic concentration, multiply the result by 4.43 (NO3-N).

Trust NT Labs Nitrate Test to accurately measure nitrate levels, providing you with the information needed to maintain a balanced pond environment. Keep your fish and plants healthy by monitoring and managing nitrate levels effectively. Choose NT Labs for reliable water testing solutions.