ORP Readings

[stre1026]

I have an ORP probe that's been installed for about 3 weeks now and the readings have stabilized. I'm getting about 453 as a reading. I'm wondering if this is good or bad? I have read that many people getting readings at about 300 when they do a water change so I'm assuming 453 means I have dirty water? Or is it the opposite?

Thanks,

[zombie]

Optimal range is 300-450 though that can vary depending on temperature and pH. Organics are reducers which drop the ORP value so more toward the top of the optimal range is what you want to shoot for. With that said, without calibration (which is expensive and difficult) the ORP probe is +- 50 if I remember correctly so I wouldn't take the exact numerical value with too much value. If your tank looks pristine with low algae growth and you don't overfeed, consider 450 your normal and set alarms based that are well outside the bounds you see on a typical week.

You might be an engineer if...You have no life and can prove it mathematically.

[zombie]

Good read btw if you're interested in learning the ins and outs of orp.

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2003-12/rhf/feature/

You might be an engineer if...You have no life and can prove it mathematically.

[stre1026]

Thanks zombie

I actually have read that article but admittedly, didn't understand much of it. I was never that great at chemistry I will do as you suggest and use 450 as my guideline.