Best pH Meter for Hydroponics and Water

You must be wondering why it is important to monitor the pH levels? What will happen if one loses track of pH levels? Is there anything to worry about? So, it becomes quite important to keep a tab of them when it comes to pH levels. If you don't monitor the pH levels regularly, then a small variation in the levels tends to bring a humungous amount of changes to the acidic nature of the substance.

The pH scale you encounter has logarithmic values, i.e., a small change in pH value can result in large variations. Maintaining the pH levels is not only important for some particular area or industry but also has many applications. The change in pH levels can severely affect the quality and the safety measure of the product that relies entirely on the pH levels. These changes affect not only the producers but also the consumers to a great extent.

There are many applications that show that it is very important to keep an eye on the pH levels. Let's have a glance at some of the applications that severely depend upon the pH levels monitoring.

1. Agriculture industry

The agriculture industry is primarily dependent upon the pH levels of soil. So, if the pH levels of soil are not optimum, it can pose many problems for the agriculture industry. Many things are affected by the pH levels of soil that include microbial activity, availability of nutrients, growth of plant's root, etc.

If the acidic levels are not optimum in the soil, it can release various toxic metals to the soil that can hamper the productivity and growth of plants. If the pH levels are not maintained, various vital nutrients like phosphorus and molybdenum start deteriorating from the overall soil content.

Apart from the acidic conditions, if the alkaline pH nature of the soil is not up to the mark, it can cause a deficiency in minerals like zinc, copper, iron, manganese, phosphorus, etc. So, it becomes imperative to maintain the pH levels of both the acidic and alkaline contents of the soil so that efficient results are produced.

You should not always rely on the fact that a particular pH range needs to be maintained for all kinds of plants because different plants require different pH levels. For instance, if a particular pH level is sufficient for one category of plants, then it might not be enough to provide the required nutrients for another category of plants. You need to be well-versed what is the optimum quality of pH level requirements for a particular set category.

While considering the pH levels, if there is more acidic or alkaline content as per the required pH quantities, you need to add its counterpart to balance the content. You should thoroughly analyze the content levels beforehand to make the most out of it.

2. Aquatic life

Maintaining and monitoring the pH levels is not only essential for soil but also plays a vital role in the survival of aquatic plants and animals. If the pH levels are not maintained to the optimum levels, it can severely hamper aquatic life.

The low pH levels can produce various harmful metals such as aluminum, or it can also increase the number of nitrogen levels in the water that can hamper the survival of the fishes present in the water. If the water faces a pH level of less than 5, it can hamper the reproduction levels of the fish and can even lead to the death of creatures.

On the other hand, if the pH levels exceed the value of 9, then the ammonium ions present in the water start converting to ammonia that can even threaten the life of fishes present in the water. So, it becomes the need of the hour to maintain a stable pH level range in the water.

When considering the pH levels for the aquatic life, you should try maintaining a buffer between the basic and the acidic levels in the water so that the aquatic life can have a sigh of relief.

3. Food Industry

pH level monitoring plays a very crucial role in the food industry. If the food standards are not maintained, it can lead to an increase in microbial activities that can hamper the food quality. Also, it can hamper the shelf life of the food resulting in deterioration in taste and other properties of food items. For instance, you need to maintain the pH at optimum levels because maintaining the pH levels of one thing results in deciding the quality of the product derived from that material.

Keeping an eye on the pH levels for food is an indicator of food quality. If the appropriate levels of pH are not maintained, then it can hamper the food quality. Many food items offer a very narrow range of pH levels. The range is selected in such a way that the food items can be easily preserved for a long time without compromising their quality.

4. Swimming pool maintenance

Swimming pools are an important place that also makes use of pH levels monitoring. In swimming pools, many people will come and go, so it becomes mandatory to treat the water properly.

If the pH level is below a certain required limit, it can invite the growth of algal in the water, resulting in deteriorating the effectiveness of water to fight against viruses and bacteria.

Not keeping an eye on the pH levels of the water in swimming pools can also corrode the metal surfaces. So, you should keep a check on this aspect of pH monitoring as well.

How does a pH meter measure pH?

Once you grab the pH meter for your intended purpose, then one of the most important questions that strike your mind is how to use this meter to measure the pH levels? Is it easy to use? Can a beginner also use this meter? These are a few questions that must be striking in your mind for sure. To get the vivid answers to these questions, keep on reading till the end to make the most out of it and gain confidence in using a pH meter even by being a beginner.

To know more about measuring through the pH meter, we first need to know the parts that collectively make a pH meter. So, let’s have a sneak-peak at the intrinsic parts of the pH meter. A pH meter or pH tester consists of an internal electrode, a reference electrode, and a high impedance input meter.

When we talk about the glass probe, it consists of two electrodes, one is the internal electrode, and the other is the reference electrode. Both these electrodes are made with silver wire covered with silver chloride. The probe experiences a pH of 7 to measure the pH of the solution that the user wants to measure. The pH of the required solution will be measured as the difference between the pH levels of the reference buffer and the sample solution.

The pH meter needs to be calibrated at regular instances to measure the pH value at the optimum levels. If the meter is not calibrated up to the mark, it can rise to fluctuations in readings. To calibrate pH meter, a buffer solution comes to the rescue that makes the calibration much easier.

Manual pH testing vs Digital pH Testing - Which one is Best?

Manual pH Testing

In manual pH testing, one needs to do all the pH testing and calibration manually, unlike digital testing. In manual pH testing, you don’t require any digital meter to measure the pH levels for a particular thing.

Digital pH Testing

A digital pH meter is designed to measure the pH values accurately with the assistance of an electronic device. In the digital pH meter, you will encounter a glass electrode that is further connected with the probe for better results.

Voltage is the main driving force behind digital pH testing. If you are excited to know how digital pH testing works in the true sense, then keep reading further to know the most about it.

If you want to achieve more accurate readings of the pH levels, then the digital pH meter is the best choice. No doubt, even a litmus paper can serve the purpose, but the precision and accuracy observed with these meters are commendable.

Factors need to consider before buying a Digital pH meter

The versatility of pH meters has exceeded expectations and has become a popular instrument for several purposes. Whether it be in a professional field or household proceedings, they can be employed virtually anywhere. They can accurately measure the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution and aid in your final observations.

Moreover, you can get pH meters at a pocket-friendly price. Several things need to be kept in mind while purchasing a pH meter due to its versatile application. Following are some determinants that will have a significant impact on your final choice.

1. Accuracy:

The purchase of a pH meter is predominantly influenced by its accuracy. Naturally, the accuracy will have a major impact on its price too. The more accurate you want your pH meter to be, the more bucks you’d have to splash. Thus, your need for a pH meter governs the pH meter you should go for.

For research purposes, a pH meter with an accuracy of +/-0.01 is perfect as you get near accuracy with an affordable price tag. On the other hand, if you require a pH tester as a piece of household equipment or for school projects, then a pH meter with an accuracy of +/-0.10 works fine. Nevertheless, decent manufacturers will render accurate readings regardless of the cost.

2. Calibration:

A perfectly calibrated digital ph meter alone will ensure the accurate readings of the solution, the pH balance you are testing. So, it is not rocket science to realize that this is one of the major determinants. A 3-point calibration meter can be used if your field of work is narrow, while a higher calibrated meter is used for extensive study. However, recently manufactured pH meters can be calibrated easily.

3. Temperature:

It is to be kept in mind that temperature massively affects the readings. The pH meter's temperature must be the same as the temperature of the solution that is being tested. This will ensure that the results are not hampered. 

Several pH meters have this feature of automatic temperature compensation, but those are enhanced for extensive research purposes rather than ordinary household chores; subsequently, they are more pricy.

4. Electrode:

Electrode is a part of the meter which is dipped in the solution whose pH balance you wish to measure. It is this that fulfills the primary function of a pH meter, that is, to measure the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. Electrodes are generally made of glass. However, in some cases, glass probes can prove to be harmful.

For such cases, there are pH meters without a glass probe which you could consider to buy, though they can be heavy on your pocket. The electrodes are very fragile and can be damaged after consistent use. You will then need to replace it.

The durability of the electrode, as well as the cost of replacement, is another thing that needs to be kept in mind. The electrodes of some pH meters cannot be replaced at all. If the electrode gets damaged in this case, you would have to buy a new pH meter altogether.

Thus, it is advisable to purchase a pH meter whose electrode can be replaced after it endures damage. The faulty probe will give faulty readings which will ultimately contaminate your observations. 

5. Portability:

As said earlier, pH meters are highly versatile instruments that can be employed in household chores or laboratories. Some studies demand your instrument to be handy that you can carry anywhere with you at any time. 

Multiple pH meters are now available that can be as portable as it gets. From pocket size pH meters, you can also get pen-sized meters. These are available with a reasonably inexpensive price tag, and the readings are also accurate. You can use them in labs and also easily carry them in fields if needed.

Some of them are waterproof and durable, so you don’t have to worry about them getting damaged easily. Most of them come with protective coverings.

These factors play a significant role in the performance of the pH meter. Not all individuals would pay much heed to spot-on intel, while others are profusely concerned about it. These differences in demands have to be considered while you select the best pH meter for yourself.

There is also the question of durability. People with extensive research in hand would want the pH meter to be much more elaborate and advanced than for, let’s say, a mere school project. Hence, listing out your needs and purchasing a corresponding instrument will help you immensely.

Frequently Asked Questions About pH Meter

1. What is the pH meter used for?

A pH meter is an electronic device used to measure the hydrogen-ion activity, indicating its acidity or basicity. When you immerse the electrode of the pH meter in a solution, the readings regarding the hydrogen activity will be displayed on the meter.

2. How to ensure that your pH meter is accurate?

For accurate measurement of the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution, the pH meter needs to be calibrated. The steps involved in perfectly calibrating your pH meter are given in the manual, which comes with the meter.

Once calibrated perfectly, you will get accurate readings of the pH balance of the solution. It is necessary to calibrate the meter before using it and always keep it out of harm’s way. If the meter gets damaged, it may show faulty readings and contaminate your overall observation.

3. What can cause a pH meter to give faulty readings?

Poor calibration can be one of the reasons for the pH meter to give faulty readings. Centrally, the meter can provide false readings when the electrode of the meter is broken or damaged in any way.

Probes are generally made of glass and are highly prone to damage due to their fragility. Broken probes may give false readings and contaminate your observations. Most pH meters come with the feature of replaceable probes, so you can replace them when the probe gets damaged.

4. How is Manual temperature compensation different from automatic temperature compensation?

In the case of manual temperature compensation, you would need a separate device to record the temperature of the buffers and the solution. Further, in manual compensation, the temperature needs to be set on the temperature dial of the meter.

On the other hand, automatic temperature compensation will compensate for temperature itself if connected with the temperature probes.

5. How often do I need to calibrate my pH meter?

You would need to calibrate pH meter each time before using it. 

6. Are pH meters compact?

Yes, most pH meters are defined by their compactness. These may include pen-sized pH meters that can be carried anywhere. Many experiments require fieldwork, so you would need a pH meter that is light and compact.

While there are some pH meters that you may not like to carry with you from place to place, manufacturers have been focusing on the compactness of the recent pH meters above all. So yes, you can find ample of highly compact and lightweight pH meters in the market.

7. Are cheap pH meters accurate?

Inexpensive pH meters maybe a little off-spot in contrast with expensive ones. However, some manufacturers keep the prices of their products low yet provide exemplary performance in all aspects, including the accuracy of the pH meters.

Although these may prove to have a short life, you can get the full potential out of these meters through reliable readings with easy calibration in whatever short life.

8. Are pH meters durable?

pH meters are very fragile, particularly the electrode, which is generally made of glass. The probe can get damaged easily, and you would need to replace it. Otherwise, your pH meter may give faulty readings. Such pH meters, which have the feature of replaceable electrodes, tend to be highly durable.

Although, you would need to give it proper maintenance owing to its size and inevitable fragility. Virtually all the pH meters come with protective covers, so it is advised to shelter your pH meters into these covers when they are not being used.