liquid test kits - expiration?

[maxthedog123]

I looked around and I didn't see a good answer on this. What is the shelf life of liquid test kits?

I purchased an API master kit about a year ago. The nitrate tests are about empty (since they take 10 drops each test), but some bottles still have quite a bit left. pH for example - I rarely or never test for that.

Is there a point that liquid tests need to be thrown out? How long are they good.

I don't think there is an expiration date on the bottle and who knows how long they may have been sitting in the store. Any key to the lot number on the bottle?

[jm1212]

it is usually two years after the date indicated on the bar code

[maxthedog123]

Maybe there was a bar code on the original box - but I don't see a barcode.

There is a lot number on each bottle that looks like "17A1006". The first 3 numbers/letters are different on each bottle. Most of them are either 1006 or 0906 on the last 4 digits. Is that a manufacture date for the lot???

[dirtydawg10]

Yes...October and September 2006 respectively. 3 years max I would say on the accuracy part.

[Que]

http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=169718

[maxthedog123]

Thanks - I didn't pick this up when I searched.

Just curious - where did you find the durations for the different tests? I looked on the API website but didn't see anything.

[Que]

From this forum

http://www.fishlore.com/fishforum/test-kits/6439-important-information-api-freshwater-master-test-kit-users.html

Q

[Weezer]

Good info...........:)

[yourchoice]

Good to know that.With the low range Ph you have to give it a real good shaking if not used for awhile.

[Mgamer20o0]

Thanks - I didn't pick this up when I searched.

Just curious - where did you find the durations for the different tests? I looked on the API website but didn't see anything.
i have posted it several times too....


In response to your question, each reagent bottle has a Lot # printed on
the bottle. The last four digits are the month and year of manufacture.
Example: Lot # 28A0102. This is a pH reagent manufactured in January of
2002. Pond Care Wide Range pH, Ammonia, High Range pH, Nitrate,
Phosphate, Copper, Calcium and GH all last for three years. Nitrite and
KH will last for four years. Freshwater pH(low range) and Pond Care Salt
Level will last for five years. I would not trust these kits after they
have expired.