whats a good phosphate test kit?

[neupane00]

hey guys i am using reef master phosphate test. its hard to say what the phosphate really is. there is 0.0, 0.25 and 0.5.. they are pretty much similar color... and also nothing in between, only increment of 0.25. is that how it is? is that the best phosphate test i can find? (i mean in a reasonable price)

 

[steveweast]

I guess that depends on your definition of "reasonable". If you're looking for a $20 kit, forget it. The hobbiest phosphate test kits are difficult to read and don't have an accurate enough low range for levels that most reefkeepers are interested in knowing. Most reefkeepers are interested in 0.0 to .15. For that resolution you'll need to go to something like the HANNA HI 93713 LR Phosphate Photometer. It has an accuracy of 0.02 and is very simple to use. It will set you back about $175.....but, you'll know truly where your PO4 levels stand.