Bluelab Truncheon + PH Pen ($180) VS. Hanna Combo ($160)

[Dothraki]

So I’m guessing it’d be better to just spend the extra $20 to get each tester individually...but I’m not too familiar with any of these devices. I will be using NFTG with tap water. That’s some sludgy stuff. Would these be the best options? If not, what else would you recommend for checking EC/PPM and PH of feed solution, slurries, runoff etc?

 

[jguit]

The pen style meters are great if you're looking to check something quick. If you're mixing stuff, the combo meters with long leads are great instead of having to continually put a pen in the solution. Something like the Bluelab Combo meter. I'm pretty sure Hanna makes something similar as well.

 

[Moe.Red]

Yes as @jguit says the pens are handy for spot checks. They do seem to get further from reporting truth the older they are, but they are cheap and easy.

If money is an issue, starting with pens is a good way to go. As you get better and grow more, you will most likely upgrade, but then you still have the pens to do spot checks and compare against.

 

[Dothraki]

Is there a certain type ... say, graphite for instance...that everyone uses due to salts or different nutrient solutions that’s better readings or doesn’t go bad as quick? Or are these all pretty much the same. Can’t find a discussion on it.

 

[growsince79]

Is there a certain type ... say, graphite for instance...that everyone uses due to salts or different nutrient solutions that’s better readings or doesn’t go bad as quick? Or are these all pretty much the same. Can’t find a discussion on it.

You can go cheap on a ppm meter; don't go cheap on the ph pen.

 

[Dothraki]

You can go cheap on a ppm meter; don't go cheap on the ph pen.

Oh good to know! How cheap on PPM would be reasonable?

 

[Smokey0418]

Apera makes a great all in one tester , pc60 for example.

 

[growsince79]

Oh good to know! How cheap on PPM would be reasonable?

My hanna that I had for years just broke. I bought a $6.99 meter that gives reasonable looking #s. I hardly ever use them anyways, but its good to have.