Instructions
Chemical Test Kits
Rinse out the vials that come with the test kit and allow them to air dry. Once the vials dry completely, rinse them with aquarium water and discard the water.
Draw a sample of water according to the instructions contained in the test kit. Add the water sample to one of the vials from the kit. Measure the chemicals provided in the kit according to the type of test you are performing. The kit will include chemicals to test the levels of all five factors necessary for fish health: pH, nitrite, nitrate, ammonia, general hardness and carbonate hardness.
Wait for the water color to change, then compare the color of the water to the chart included in the test kit. Once you have the results, discard the water, rinse out the vials and allow them to air dry.
Test Strips
Dunk a test strip into the aquarium water. Hold it underwater for the amount of time recommended in the instructions that came with the test strips.
Pull the test strip out of the water. You will notice it changed color.
Compare the color of the strip to the colors on the chart that came with the test strips to get your results.
How to Test Saltwater Aquarium Water
Poor water quality is the number one cause of fish death in home aquariums. Fish require certain levels of pH, nitrite, nitrate, ammonia, general hardness and carbonate hardness in their aquarium water to stay healthy. The levels of these five factors necessary for fish survival varies depending on the species of fish. You can keep your finned friends healthy and happy by finding out the levels your pets need and then regularly testing the water to make sure it meets these requirements.