Testing Salinity (Easy) (Opinion)

[postie]

So, I used to have multiple saltwater aquariums, both fish only and reefs. Kept them about 15 years. That said, it's been about 15 years since I've had a tank of any kind. Obviously MUCH has changed. I am getting ready to start a nano, either a 29 or 36 (haven't decided) and am gathering supplies. I always used a simple hydrometer to check salinity and always had success. I see now there are digital and refractometer options available at reasonable costs, but I'm really not interested in calibrating equipment. I am a beekeeper and a refractometer is required to test moisture in honey, but that same refractometer will not work for salinity. Also, a QUALITY refractometer is very expensive (same with saltwater?). What I'm asking really is what does everyone find the easiest to use to check salinity and why? What brands? Most dependable, etc. Seems simple to think about salinity with all the variables involved in a successful reef, but worth asking. Thanks in advance.

 

[Rebels23]

I use this:

HI98319 Salinity & Temperature Tester - Hanna

Hanna Instruments HI98319 Water Salinity Tester measures conductivity (EC) to determine the salinity & temperature of natural and artificial seawater within seconds.

www.saltwateraquarium.com

and a basic hydrometer

 

[Spartanwarrior]

I use the hanna salinity meter mentioned above and its great. Ive calibrated it maybe 2x in 1.5 years and didn't really need to...values didn't change. Its been highly accurate when compared to a bulk reef supply refractometer. Their refractometers are quality enough for this hobby and run less than $50. And I am sorry to say but if $50 is expensive to you this day and age, you are in for a rude awakening...this hobby has only blown up in terms of cost in 15 years. Much luck in your new endeavors!

 

[postie]

Thanks for the replies. The salinity meter sounds like a good option, and yes a hydrometer for back up. I appreciate the responses, things and products have changed quite a bit. Hobby has always been pricey but that's part of it.

 

[Rebels23]

I am in the same boat.......almost 15 year hiatus coming back in......crazy how much has changed and all the new technology.

Honestly, the hydrometer is what is most convenient for me. And once you have the salinity meter calibrated, I know what the hydrometer is relative to that. Good luck!

 

[bvega789]

Im with you I like the hydro too but i heard it gives misreadings too be more accurate i was told to use a refractometer and i have but i cant seem to calibrate it right!
I def want to try the hanna which seems to be best option

I am in the same boat.......almost 15 year hiatus coming back in......crazy how much has changes and all the new technology.

Honestly, the hydrometer is what is most convenient for me. And once you have the salinity meter calibrated, I know what the hydrometer is relative to that. Good luck!

 

[Donewiththisplace]

Marine depot has a refractometer for $40. Calibration fluid will run u another $10 or so.

Calibrating is easy as using a few drops of the calibrating fluid and turning a little screw. Takes all of 45 seconds...I do it every month or 2 and its usually not far off.

Spend the few extra bucks and toss the swing arm hydrometer. Highly inaccurate and inconsistent.

 

[postie]

One of the reasons I want to keep a hydrometer on hand is due to the circumstances of the country. I try not to use things that require special ordering (such as calibrating fluid), in case of a disruption in supply chains or difficulties with online ordering. I try to make sure I can purchase most basics locally, but locally for me for saltwater is an hour and a half away. So, I wonder if the calibrating fluid that comes with the purchase of a refractometer or Hanna has a shelf life? Could one buy ahead in at least small quantity?

 

[Geraud]

Swing arm hydrometers are just bad.
A floating one is more precise if you cut the pumps first.