What is Reddit's opinion of API SALTWATER MASTER TEST KIT 550-Test Saltwater Aquarium Water Test Kit?

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So at what point should I be doing a water change then?

This is the test kit I have been using

API SALTWATER MASTER TEST KIT 550-Test Saltwater Aquarium Water Test Kit https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B001EUE808/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ASSY68XGKV7QDNZDCE7J?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Speaking of the testing kit, if you need another one there's currently a lightning deal on amazon for $7 off

https://www.amazon.com/API-SALTWATER-550-Test-Saltwater-Aquarium/dp/B001EUE808/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1511498959&sr=8-3&keywords=api+master+test+kit

If you want to keep... fish, you should definitely get a pH tester thingy, an ammonia tester thingy, a nitrite tester thingy and a nitrate tester thingy ;-P

The master test kit gives you everything you need and you'll probably want to use the saltwater kit instead of fresh so you have the high-range pH test.

I'd go with pool filter sand. $10 for 50lb. Works great. Unless, like I said, you have trouble keeping you pH up.

Yeah, I'd stick with the Hanna pH probe if you want a digital reading. They're a known brand with reviews, history, tech support, etc. The "Com-600" looks like a knock-off of old Eutech/Oakton pH pens. The Com-600 looks like it's trying to pack a lot of readings in a small package that I usually see in way more expensive instruments.

Over at r/Aquariums they recommend the API Master Test Kit for freshwater parameters and I assume that the saltwater version works just as well. It is a color change type of kit but you should be able to get a little more precise with the reading, as opposed to a range like 7.0 - 7.5.

As far as the pH calibration, it's not too bad if you get some buffer solutions and read the instructions carefully.

Hope this helps!

It seems that your comment contains 1 or more links that are hard to tap for mobile users. I will extend those so they're easier for our sausage fingers to click!

Here is link number 1 - Previous text "API"

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Yes I am using this test kit: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B001EUE808

Can you elaborate on biological media requirements? My filter has a bag of what it calls biological media (sort of porous looking rock pellets). I also have a couple of decent sized chunks of pukani rock.

I'm testing that water right now. Test kit: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001EUE808/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Do you suggest a different one?

It could be, but first we need to rule out the most common causes.

I think a 50% water change immediately would be a good first step. Take another water sample to the fish store as soon as possible, and pick up a liquid test kit like this one as soon as you can.
In the meantime, read this guide on cycling a tank if you haven't already learned about it.
My money is on ammonia or nitrite being the problem.

If you are using the test strips they have you might not be as accurate as a test that uses mixing chemicals with the water by hand. I use the API saltwater test kit and I use the API Reef Master Test Kit

API SALTWATER MASTER TEST KIT 550-Test Saltwater Aquarium Water Test Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001EUE808/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_w7lbCbKY3J25N

API REEF MASTER TEST KIT Reef Aquarium Water Test Kit 1-Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001D6Z7QW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_X7lbCbKZ8E565

These are both a staple every successful reef aquarium keeper will use and they get used up so even if he has some now he will still be able to use these after he runs through what he may have.

Good luck!