wow are hydrometers this inaccurate
- Thread starter hops523
- Start date
uberlink
Active Member
Originally Posted by PClown
I have the Hydrometer and My test the water my water at 1.024, which I buy from the LFS. After learning about the Refractometers I asked my LFS as to what they test thier water with and they said a refractometer and I asked what was their water Salanity and they 1.024 so I had them test mine with there refractometer and I was right between 1.024 - 1.025 and my test came in between 1.024 - 1.025 with my hydrometer.
I know that refactometer are more accurate but is it enough to worry about? My water always test at or between 1.024 - 1.025 with the Hydrometer.
My hydrometer was fairly accurate most of the time, as well. But there were also those times when you'd get an unseen bubble and have to mess with it to get an accurate reading. In addition to their accuracy, refractometers are easier to use and read, less messy, and require less water.
I have the Hydrometer and My test the water my water at 1.024, which I buy from the LFS. After learning about the Refractometers I asked my LFS as to what they test thier water with and they said a refractometer and I asked what was their water Salanity and they 1.024 so I had them test mine with there refractometer and I was right between 1.024 - 1.025 and my test came in between 1.024 - 1.025 with my hydrometer.
I know that refactometer are more accurate but is it enough to worry about? My water always test at or between 1.024 - 1.025 with the Hydrometer.
My hydrometer was fairly accurate most of the time, as well. But there were also those times when you'd get an unseen bubble and have to mess with it to get an accurate reading. In addition to their accuracy, refractometers are easier to use and read, less messy, and require less water.
hottie79
Member
First of all, I am shocked that an LFS actually cared about your reading at all and didnt just send you home with the live rock anyway. My LFS doesnt even carry the refractometers because he says the hydrometer works fine and is less expensive. However, with how much time, money and emotion we all put into our tanks, the $50 refractometer is definitly worth the bit of extra money to save our inverts, fish and coral in the long run.
Good luck!
Btw, does anyone have a salt they like better than the IO?
Good luck!
Btw, does anyone have a salt they like better than the IO?
subvillian
Member
I was just reading a book on water chemisty. And they just mentioned that most hydrometers are calibrated at a 60 degree Temp. which directy effect the specific gravity, since most reef tanks stay at a temp of 76- 79 degrees. There was a formula to convert it with your temp if you would like me to post it when i get home??
