wow are hydrometers this inaccurate

hops523

hops523

Member
So heres the deal, I went to my lfs a minute ago to pick up some live rock, and to get my water tested. Everything was good except the salinity. When they tested it the hydrometer went way down and it wasnt even on the scale like 1.000! But it was weird because I just measured the salinity earlier this morning and it said 1.022, but I was thinking mine could be inaccurate, so they said I cant get the live rock until I get the salinity up. So after that I went to ***** to get the same brand of hydrometer they had. I got home and the salinity was 1.021! Could my salinity have read wrong because I had the water I gave them in a small container, instead of me just taking it out of the water? I am really confused. And when I go again tomorrow, they will probably tell me I cant get the live rock. I will bring them another sample, but what should I do? Should I explain it to them when I go tomorrow?
 
fedukeford

fedukeford

Active Member
explain it to them, most likley theirs is WAY off, do you have any inverts in your tank?? b/c if ur saltinity was really that low they would all be dead, i would suggest getting a hydrometer
 
hops523

hops523

Member
I really hope they understand. They ask if I put any salt in it at all. I followed the directions on the box of instant oceon, if any of you have instant oceon then you know what directions I am talking about No, I only have live subtrate at the bottom right now. I have a hydrometer its the ones made by instant oceon.
 
murph145

murph145

Active Member
yup dont use a hydrometer i had mine reading 1.0245 for my reef tank then got my refractometer it was pegged at 1.029!
thats how off those lil plastic thingies can be!
 
hops523

hops523

Member
Wow I didnt even know. Tomorrow when I go to the lfs, they will probably understand. Especially when I tell them that I did exactly what it says to to on the box. So hopefully they understand. Now when I add the live rock. Which measurement will spike? What I mean is things like ammonia, nitrates, etc. Also how do I get them back down when the time comes?
 
v-lioness

v-lioness

Member
Yes, I remember the change over to a refractometer, the hydrometer I had read 1.026 (thats what I keep my levels at) my refractometer read 1.031. That is quite a difference & I will never be with out one again......
Kaye
 
fishy7

fishy7

Active Member
Spend a little extra $ to get a refractometer. It will save you time and money in the long run + gives you piece of mind.

I was sick and tired of guessing.
 
hops523

hops523

Member
I would if I can find it in the stores. I would rather get it from the stores than online, just one of my preferences. Or if there was anyway to call and order from any of those places. What spikes when I add live rock, and how do I bring it down?
 
fishy7

fishy7

Active Member
Originally Posted by hops523
I would if I can find it in the stores. I would rather get it from the stores than online, just one of my preferences. Or if there was anyway to call and order from any of those places.
My LFS carries them. The same unit I found on line for $30 cheaper and I did not have to pay tax. Shipping was $3.5 ... Came out way a head on this one.
The deals are out there just have to turn over a few rocks.
 
uberlink

uberlink

Active Member
Originally Posted by hops523
I would if I can find it in the stores. I would rather get it from the stores than online, just one of my preferences. Or if there was anyway to call and order from any of those places. What spikes when I add live rock, and how do I bring it down?
You'll easily pay $75+ if you buy it at a regular LFS. You should really reconsider your preference on this one and try to find one online. Heck, if you prefer to order by phone, just look for a 1-800 number on their websites! You'll find them on this website for $50 (though they never answer their phone) or elsewhere for as little as $30. DEFINITELY get one. They're quicker and easier to use than the hydrometers, and many times more accurate.
 
hops523

hops523

Member
What are some good sites that sell refractometers with a phone number? Also what are some good websites besides here to order fish from besides here? I have heard of etropicals, is that any good? My lfs doesnt have certain types of fish, that is the only reason I am asking.
 
beldarfish

beldarfish

New Member
I just got my refract in the mail yesterday........it scaled out to 1.025
my hydro said 1.022 :notsure:
Personally,I am glad I got a refract. that was my 2nd hydro & at 15 bucks or so.....
my Bud said he has been "through 15 of 'em", I said" get a refract,I did", he was like "huh"?
 
pclown

pclown

Member
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.
 
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