Liquid testing help, and possible Nitrite problem

[sarcare]

I bought an aquarium pharmesuticals master test kit last saturday, and I've had problems with testing ever since. I'm not sure if I am doing it right, and thought someone here could answer my question.

1. How do I clean the test tubes in between testing?

2. The dropper for the #2 solution melted--why did it do that, and is there anything I can do to get it to work--it drips from holes all over the lid!

3. The colors that turn out are sometimes not quite one color or another--does that mean it is in between? I've attached a picture of the nitrite test card with tests taken from both of my tank. One appears to have more nitrites then the other--but not as much as .25 ppm, it is perhaps a darker blue but not yet purple. The other tank was like that and I did a 50% water change and it turned brighter blue.

Sorry for so many questions, but ya'll have been so helpful!

 

[Ms.Bubbles]

1. Cleaning test tubes: I just give them a good rinse with tap water between testings

2. Sounds like a faulty test kit--I would take the kit back and get a new one. You need absolute consistency of drops to get an accurate reading.

3. Yes, the colours are sometimes in between 2 readings.

 

[plah831]

and try not to touch the insides of the test tubes or the insides of the lids, because the oils from your fingers can sometimes mess up test results.

 

[yourchoice]

my card looks the exact same.never had problems with the kit.i rinse the tubes three times and also the lids.as far as the melting goes ?either it was defective plastic when you got it or you touch it on something hot.take it back and they should give you another bottle any way.

 

[neilmack]

When I had my water tested at the store, the man rinsed out the test tubes with my aquarium water then put more in to test. I assume, If you put tap water in to rinse then you may have residue from it in the tube when putting in the test water.

 

[tmtpowers]

I would imagine rinsing with the water to be tested will effect the results.....

I rinse mine with tap water as well. I don't think rinsing with tap water will effect the results.

 

[Star_Rider]

you should rinse the tubes out. if the lfs used aquarium water did he/she dip the tube into the water or pour the water from the sample into the tube?

if they dipped the tube ito the water..chances are they contaminated the sample with chemicals.
the test water may not give a good reading. if they poured it in..then they may be okay. however, I rinse with tap several times to make sure the chemicals and residue are gone.

 

[plah831]

I rinse with tap several times to make sure the chemicals and residue are gone.

I do this too. Then, before testing, I rinse a couple times with tank water (the stuff I'm going to be testing) to make sure any leftover tap water won't mess with my results.