[inuyasha_lover_21]

Hi,

I am using a instant ocean hydrometer and its got different readings. I clean it out with freshwater all the time to make sure everything is fine. I bought it on friday.

[luke33]

Hi Inuyasha, the hydrometer's are very inacurate and over time deteriorate. 99.99% of everyone in the hobby starts with these things and eventually ends up buying a refractometer if they stay in the hobby long enough. I used one for the first 6mths i was in teh hobby then got a refractometer. My hydrometer was teh same version you mentioned and i thought my water was at .022. I had it at that level because of the hydrometer errors. To my surprise my water was at .030. Not good. My fish were all fine, but now that its back to .025 they seem much happier adn less stressed out. I got a atc hydrometer from ebay brand new shipped to my door for $30. A very good price! Generally there around 50. My only suggestion is to test your water at teh lfs and then test your hydrometer and see where the level of error is and go from there.

[inuyasha_lover_21]

Thanks for the help. I am going to buy a refractometer

[inuyasha_lover_21]

What do you think about this one?

I may buy it

eBay: Salinity Refractometer 0-10% ATC Aquarium Salt Water (item 330092318229 end time Mar-01-07 12:17:09 PST)

update - I bought it

[luke33]

thats the same one i have. It is very good. I've heard good things about this provider as well. the only reason i didn't purchase it from them is because they are based out of hong kong and i didn't want to wait the 10 days for it to come in. But i'm completely confident they will treat you right and give you excellent service along with a product. You made a great choice and got a great price. Even at places like marine depot and premium aquatics after shipping it will cost around $50-$55. Let me know if you need anything else.

[inuyasha_lover_21]

what do I use the screwdriver for?

[luke33]

When you get the refractometer you are going to have to calibrate it. Basically what you do is take the dropper and get a bit of rodi water, or some room temperature bottled water and put it on the refractometer lens. Then look through your refractometer and if it isn't at 1.00 then you take the little screwdriver until it says 1.00....then your calibrated. If you still don't feel 100% confident, go to a reputable pet store and get some food or something you need, then say, hey by the way can you check my refract? 10/10 times they will help you real quick. Once you get it you'll know what to do.....i was a bit nervous when i got mine...til i saw it, very easy to use, its like focusing binoculars. No worries!