Basics: correct way for water titration testing

[dknuckles]

This is a topic that is not touched on other than "need to test".
We all know we should test parameters frequently to help maintain our tanks health, but does everyone know the correct procedure in a titration water test? Are you aware that incorrect procedure can also give such a broad range of inaccurate readings? Sadly some are not aware and continue to make adjustments based on incorrect information and even worse continue testing for other reefers...
#1 !!! Buy your own test kits (high quality kits!) and learn to use them! Yes, they can be expensive and are a pain to learn how to use but noting compares to the cost of some corals and overall investment in the tank
#2 Read the directions thoroughly! They are usually rather straight forward in a sequential procedure.
#3 ****MOST IMPORTANT!!**** the miniscus! It is the 1/2 bubble @ the top of water sample in the test tube, in specific to reading ALL measurements are taken @ the BOTTOM of the bubble (aka miniscus)!You would be amazed how many self proclaimed "coral experts" did not have a clue what it was or where is it read!!!
#4 the scoop. This is always an area of debate, simply put required number of LEVEL spoonful(s) is all you need. This will allow a more consistant coloration of the titration.
#5 any dropper should hold bottle w/ tip down and discard 1st (keep inverted) then use appropriate drop count for paticular titration
#6 Make sure there is no residual titration solution in syringe (this will give a higher than 1ml volume of solution) when drawing titration solution read @ plunger corner closest to solution (not middle of the plunger)

The key to any testing is using EXACT same procedure and EXACT measurements for each test.

Happy testing everyone