Huge variance in ph

[Lauren B.]

Hey guys,

I've been using my master test kit (because it's fun) and I tested my ph. The results reads 7.6. I did the high range ph test out of curiosity, and it reads 8.4. How do I know what my correct ph is?

[sergo]

exactly what kit are you using? my kit has a high and low range test. the thing is that the low range tops at 7.6 and the high starts at 7.4. what is the ph of you tap, if you are using it in you tank? that should give you a better idea of where it actually is.

[Lauren B.]

I have the API Freshwater Master Kit Test. It has two separate tests for ph.

In the first test (it has an aqua colored card/chart), the results range from 6.0 to 7.6. I just tested the water right out of the tap and the results came back as 7.6, which is at the bottom of the card.

The second test (it's called "high range"), ranges from 7.4 to 8.8. The results from this test was 8.0, which falls in the middle of the card.

I'm a little confused and I don't think I fully understand how to read these tests or what it is I'm testing for. Can someone explain the ph test to me a little better?

Thanks, and sorry for being a dumb ass! :11:

[sergo]

ok, i have the same kit. you will read 7.6 on the low end because you have to go through 7.6 to get to 8.0 and that's all that can be read on the low card. the 8.0 is going to be the actual ph simply because it falls in the middle of the high card and not on the end. did that help you out?

[Lauren B.]

ok, i have the same kit. you will read 7.6 on the low end because you have to go through 7.6 to get to 8.0 and that's all that can be read on the low card. the 8.0 is going to be the actual ph simply because it falls in the middle of the high card and not on the end. did that help you out?

OH, I GET IT NOW!! :19:

The second (high range) ph is simply an extension of the first! I get it!

I didn't understand this at first...I thought I was testing for two separate things, or that the readings for each were supposed to match, or that one would be clear and read nothing if it didn't apply....I had no idea how it worked. But I see now...if you get the max reading on the first card, you know you have to jump up to the high range test because your ph is higher.

But I get it now! Thanks Sergo! :malelovies:

[sergo]

my pleasure.