Buying Guide for Aquarium Hydrometers
A hydrometer is a piece of equipment that allows you to monitor the specific gravity of aquarium water. If you want to keep track of the specific gravity (SG) in your aquariums and successfully navigate the water quality issues, then you need an aquarium hydrometer.
There are two types of hydrometers; the spoon and dip hydrometer. The difference between the two is that the spoon is more accurate, but requires a spoon to measure the specific gravity. The dip one is easier to use, but more prone to error, especially if you're working with a weak solution like tap water.
Benefits of Aquarium Hydrometers
Simple Design
A hobbyist dips the entire device into their aquarium and fills it until the top is full of salt water. This allows the hydrometer to determine the salinity of the water. Having removed the unit from the tank, it is then placed on a level surface. As the swing-arm within the hydrometer rises, the specific gravity also known as the relative density of the water sample is indicated. The denser the water, the higher the arm rises.
Inexpensive and easy to operate
It is recommended that you rinse the hydrometer with fresh water after each use to prevent salt from building up in unreachable places before it dries. The hydrometer will last longer and will be more accurate as well.
Easy to Understand
An aquarium hydrometer comes with simple instructions. A refractometer is a simple instrument used to measure aqueous concentrations. It requires only a few drops of liquid and is used throughout the food, agricultural, chemical, and manufacturing industries.
Accuracy
A hydrometer can be used to conveniently measure salinity in a ballast water tank. Aquarium hydrometers aren't that expensive and easy to use. An inspector uses a magnifying eyepiece to inspect a tiny glass reticle inside a refractometer that is projected by lenses and prisms through the critical angle principle.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Aquarium Hydrometers
Types
There are three types of hydrometers on the market. Triple scale hydrometers are the most popular and affordable units. Hydrometers can be used in a variety of settings, so researchers and producers should refine their research and production goals. Temperature and specific gravity can also be measured with thermohydrometers; Precision units are also available. Note that thermohydrometers can measure specific gravity on a small and accurate scale (e.g., 1.000-1.070, 1.060-1.130).
Specifications
Hydrometers equipped with mercury require special consideration due to its higher toxicity than other materials. Aside from the type, the materials should also be considered. Glass hydrometers may break easily and papers scales may be less accurate.
Cost
If users plan to purchase a hydrometer, they must determine their budget. Additional accessories, such as test jars or graduated cylinders, should also be considered. Some units come with a testing jar wild base jars are preferred.
Test it Before Use
Test your hydrometer before using it on your brew by inserting it in mineral water. Tap water may contain minerals that can skew your readings. You should not use tap water when testing your hydrometer before using it. If the hydrometer functions correctly, it can be tested in mineral water.
Conclusion
Many aquarium enthusiasts use hydrometers to measure the salinity in their aquarium water to ensure it is the optimum level for their fish. Hydrometers are inexpensive and look like small, glass thermometers. They work by boiling the water and measuring the temperature rise. These are also used for checking the temperature in the aquarium.
It's helpful to use several types of aquarium hydrometers on a daily basis to check the salinity of your fish during their daily water changes and to maintain the proper levels in your aquarium. You can find more information on the products we recommend in our featured section above. The products listed there have been reviewed and rated based on their quality, accuracy, and ease of use.
