API water testing
| Kit | Type | Tests for | Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| API 5-in-1 Test Strips | Test strips | pH, nitrite, nitrate, carbonate hardness (KH) and general hardness (GH) | Not published |
| API Ammonia Test Kit | Liquid test kit | Ammonia | 0 to 8 ppm |
| API Ammonia Test Strips | Test strips | Ammonia | 0 to 6 ppm |
| API Freshwater Master Test Kit | Liquid test kit | Ammonia, pH, high range pH, nitrite and nitrate | Not published |
| API GH & KH Test Kit | Liquid test kit | General hardness (GH) and carbonate hardness (KH) | Not published |
| API KH / Carbonate Hardness Test Kit | Liquid test kit | Carbonate hardness (KH) | Not published |
| API Nitrate NO3 Test Kit | Liquid test kit | Nitrate | 0 to 160 ppm |
| API Nitrite NO2 Test Kit | Liquid test kit | Nitrite | 0 to 5 ppm |
Choosing between them
Strips read several things in about a minute; a liquid kit gives each reading its own tube and drops. A new tank needs ammonia and nitrite readings first, so check that the kit you pick reads both, or add one that does. Each kit’s page says how to read it, and the water testing guide covers what each kit measures. Once you have numbers, see what they mean for your fish.
The whole catalog · Replaced and renamed models · Plan equipment for your tank