Testing for Ammonia

[cskillet]

What is the cheapest / easiest way to test the waters ammonia level?

[Zack]

The best way is with a reliable test kit like salifte. I would check out some of the sponsors stores on the cherapest place to get one. Some give discounts as well to CF members.

[jdallred]

I think Zack meant to write Salifert test kit.

I have seen at least three or four threads that you have started which is great that you are asking questions. It is also good that you are still in the setting up phase of your tank. My advice to you would be to stop setting the tank up and keep asking questions and start doing research until you have the knowledge and confidence to set it up correctly. I know (as most on this forum) that it is hard to take it slow in this hobby but to be successful it is a must. So, slow down or stop, keep asking those questions, and start doing some major research. Good luck.

[miztahphong2]

the cheapest and easiest way i think to do it is to take a sample of your water to the lfs and let them test it for free.. =P

[cskillet]

Well, I have a friend helping me with this who is more experienced than me as far as owning a saltwater fishtank. He does not have experience with things like coral and LR...which is what I am interested in getting. I've been reading a LOT recently and am getting more and more confident with what I know. I think right now the most confusing thing is the water. I understand the cycle and how it works but I wouldn't be confident at all telling you what I need to do more or less of in my tank to control those things like pH, nitrite, and nitrate; there are just a ton of different factors that could contribute to the problem. I think if I keep testing the water and reading at the pace I am going right now then I should start to feel comfortable and know what I'm talking about[as far as the basics] fairly soon. But we will see. Thanks for the advice.

Chris