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Thread: Running low KH
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06-09-2015, 10:03 PM #1
Running low KH
Can anyone recommend a devise for testing KH at low levels? Currently running the pond at around 2.5ppm but I would like a more exact reading.
Using the Nutrafin test but the water sample turns yellow after the second drop is added to 10ml of sample.
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06-09-2015, 10:27 PM #2
I use my Palintest 7100 for everything (except chlorine) including KH. Slightly overkill for KH only though
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07-09-2015, 06:17 PM #3
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08-09-2015, 04:24 PM #4
Hi Keith
For me you are running rather too skinny.. I certainly find the pivot point where Nitrite starts becoming an issue is between 30 and 40ppm KH wise and would prefer to be able to run at this, feed at will and maintain Nitrite of .05 to .08 rather than run lower on the KH and have to limit feed or run higher Nitrite .
Dave
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08-09-2015, 07:04 PM #5
Keith,
I agree that a low KH isn't wise unless you have the time or automatic equipment to maintain that level safely.
If you want more accuracy with a manual KH (or GH) test kit then simply increase the sample volume.
Twice the volume stated in the instructions will mean that it will take two drops per degree KH e.g. first drop = 0.5 KH; second = 1 KH; third = 1.5 KH and so on.
Four times the sample size means each drop is 0.25 KH. And, if you really want accuracy, you can use ten times the sample size and go up in steps of 0.1 KH.
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08-09-2015, 07:20 PM #6
Think that Keith is already doubling the sample size if he is using 10ml on a Nutrafin..
I've found it difficult to go further ie to 20ml and certainly to 40ml as the intensity of the colour is pretty difficult to judge, even looking down the tube.
But really splitting hairs as the odd ppm can evaporate within a few hours..
Dave
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08-09-2015, 07:59 PM #7
Hi Dave,
I do double up on the sample, after the first drop it turns a lime colour then after the second drop its yellow.
My Nitrite is 0.1 using the Nutrafin test.
I have been reducing the bi-carb dose the last couple of weeks to lower the PH I found with a KH of 20ppm gave me a PH of 7.6 but now with a much lower KH my PH is 7.2.
The koi appear to have a greater appetite at a lower PH.
I realize the KH is getting a bit on the skinny side so I will increase the bi-carb dose gradually keeping a close eye on PH/Nitrite.
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08-09-2015, 10:43 PM #8
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08-09-2015, 10:46 PM #9
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08-09-2015, 10:55 PM #10
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08-09-2015, 10:57 PM #11
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08-09-2015, 11:40 PM #12
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09-09-2015, 06:36 AM #13
Ah but .... Look on eBay, they come up regularly at a fraction of the normal price. The same person has been selling them for years. Lots of people have bought them and without any problems I've heard of. Whether they bought a job lot of bankrupt stock or they get them cheap from PalinTest I have no idea.
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