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Thread: reading salinity/conditioner probe

  1. #1
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    reading salinity/conditioner probe

    I am trying to figure out how to read my salinity probe that came with my new apex controller I got for Christmas. My refractometer is reading at 1.26 but my apex app is showing my salinity at 48.8. How do I read this to know if my salt level is right compared to what I have been using? Also I was trying to research readings online and this seems high is it possible I didn't calibrate it right? (I used calibration solution that came with controller)
    Thanks

  2. #2
    Frequent Contributor zombie's Avatar
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    The calibration procedure is extremely picky. If you missed a step such as warming the packet to tank temp (some of the steps aren't listed in the manual), then it will not be accurate.

    Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

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    Ok, yeah I was wondering that. I watched the apex controller video and it looked like in the video they just put the probe in the conductivity solution didn't realize there was extra steps. Anything beside warming the packet to tank temp? Also is that reading high?

    Thanks

  4. #4
    Frequent Contributor zombie's Avatar
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    Start with a clean slate by doing a probe reset (unplug probe, do manual calibration and just hit next until its done).

    The most important things to remember when calibrating are

    1. In the dry step give it a quick rinse in RODI and pat dry with a paper towel.

    2. The conductivity packet must exactly match tank temp.

    3. There must be no bubbles during the wet step.

    Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

  5. #5
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    It seems that this reads differently than my refractometer. What should I be reading for good levels for a reef tank?

  6. #6
    Frequent Contributor zombie's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by tableforglasses View Post
    It seems that this reads differently than my refractometer. What should I be reading for good levels for a reef tank?
    35 ppt. I would also calibrate your refractometer and check the cond probe in a cup of tank water separated from the tank before changing tank salinity though.

    Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

  7. #7
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    Quote Originally Posted by tableforglasses View Post
    It seems that this reads differently than my refractometer. What should I be reading for good levels for a reef tank?
    There is also a adjustment to set as well to make it change because of the temp of water. be sure you have the temp probe enabled so it can adjust for the temp. I believe i havemine set at 1.9%. and I would give the probe a little be of time to level out before I change water. Just make sure that you refractmeter is Calibrated and its showing it to be right and i wouldnt change the water. Mine probe stays about 3PPT off of my meter.

  8. #8
    Just a Nerd in the Herd alb's Avatar
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    I aim for anywhere in the 33 to 35 ppt range. However, in my opinion, it's more important to strive for a consistent value rather than a specific value.

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