Hydroponic systems are becoming more and more popular as people learn about how easy they are to use. One of the most important aspects of a hydroponic system is the type of PPM meter that you use on your water. A good ppm meter will help you keep your plants healthy and thriving, while a bad one could lead to plant disease or death. This is an important piece of equipment for any grower out there – so don’t take it lightly!
Last update on 2024-09-26
Table of Content
What is hydroponics
Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without the use of soil. Instead, water and nutrients are delivered directly to the root system. There are many different types of hydroponic systems out there – each one uses different materials for its reservoirs or pots.
What it’s for ppm meter
A ppm meter is an instrument that measures the concentration of minerals in a solution. In hydroponics, this would be measuring how much nutrients are present in your water-based nutrient reservoir or system.
The best way to use a PPM Meter on your grow bed/reservoir is by using it as close to when you add new nutrient additives. This will give you a more accurate reading and tell you whether any adjustments need to be made before adding them directly into your root zone (if growing with soil).
Top 5 Hydroponic PPM Meter
1. Bluelab Combo Meter
Last update on 2024-09-26
This hydroponics meter is perfect for measuring conductivity, pH, and temperature with a lab-quality glass probe. The bonus of this device is the ability to be read by an ATC that will give a consistent reading regardless of any fluctuations in temperature. Furthermore, it has a double junction pH probe and can measure EC, PPM, or CF units. This unit pairs well with BlueLab meters and controllers for full indoor gardening nutrients monitoring in water and soil as their one-point calibration pH probes let you make small adjustments at little cost without having to buy costly amendments over time. But don’t forget about their two-point calibration option—it measures both point value (pH range) readings!
Pros:
- Easy calibration for pH
- Fast and accurate readings
- Ergonomic design
Cons:
- No manual off function
2. Bluelab PENPH pH Pen
Last update on 2024-09-26
Finally, hydroponics is now available to people who don’t know the difference between pH and ATC. This tester uses lab-quality glass probes with an electrode that’s more accurate than previous models! You’ll be able to make swift decisions regarding up and down adjustments with results in 5 seconds per reading. Plus, if you need help remembering when it needs calibrating (it does!), just follow the calibration reminder function. Last but not least, this durable design can survive repeated use AND covers your whole product with its waterproof properties!
Pros:
- Easy calibration
- LCD display
- Fast and accurate readings
- Superior design and manufacturing
Cons:
- The pen comes with no instructions
3. HM Digital TDS-3 Handheld Meter
Last update on 2024-09-26
The HM Digital TDS-3 Handheld Meter is perfect for any commercial use. It includes a carrying case with a belt clip and is submersible which makes it an excellent choice to measure the quality of water. The high accuracy of this meter can be due to its advanced microprocessor technology – the results are highly efficient! With all these great qualities, you’ll want one in your warehouse too!
Pros:
- It’s Ideal for Commercial Use
- Its Includes a Carrying Case with Belt Clip
- Saves Measurements for Convenient Reading and Recording
- Highly Efficient and Accurate
- Easy-to-read LCD Screen
Cons:
- The screen is not bright enough
4. Apera Instruments PH20 Value pH Tester Kit
Last update on 2024-09-26
Apera Instruments PH20 Value pH Tester Kit is perfect for all your water quality needs. This kit includes the most accurate handheld tester on the market, backed by Apera quality sensors to ensure accurate readings even in temperatures outside of 32-122°F. Designed to be durable and versatile with a rugged carrying case, this kit also has autosensing calibration which improves consistency so you’ll never have to guess how long to measure again.
Pros:
- Easy auto. calibration
- Backlit LCD display
- ensures accuracy in various temperatures (32 to 122F)
- Superior design
Cons:
- Needs to be calibrated after each use
5. PC60 Premium Pocket Multiparameter Tester Kit
Last update on 2024-09-26
Introducing the PC60 Premium Pocket Multiparameter Tester Kit, with a large clear LCD screen and 3 backlit colors to indicate different modes. It is made up of three parts: an easy-to-use multiparameter probe, which has replaceable parameters for measuring pH/EC/TDS (ppm)/Salinity/Temp., and calibration solutions that help maintain sensitivity through long periods of use. This kit includes everything you need, such as storage solutions for wet battery cells and calibration bottles with ready-to-use calibration solutions. A measurement converter function can convert the measurement into another unit within your selection upon request!
Pros:
- Measures pH/EC/TDS (ppm)/Salinity/Temp.
- Replaceable multi-parameter probe
- LARGE Clear LCD screen with 3 backlit color
Cons:
- Not a high range of salinity function readings
What to consider when looking for a ppm meter?
When looking for the best ppm meter, you want something that’s not only affordable but also easy to use. There are tons of different types on the market today and while some may interest you more than others it really comes down to your preference when using one.
A lot of people prefer digital meters because they’re easier to read; however traditional models can be just as accurate if calibrated correctly (so don’t discount them). It all depends on what type/style of grower you are: whether a beginner or long-time professional.
The most important thing is finding a tool that has been tested and reviewed by other growers like yourself so we’ve created an in-depth buyer’s guide below where go over all things needed before making a purchase.
How often should I calibrate my ppm meter?
It’s best to calibrate it every time you use your tool.
This ensures that the numbers are accurate and there is no chance of having a faulty reading during an important moment.
If you notice any sort of discrepancy between what seems right or wrong, then go ahead and give this step a try because it will truly make all the difference in terms of quality results. Just remember not to do over-calibrate as some models can actually be damaged if done too frequently! You’ll also need distilled water for this part so don’t forget to bring that with you whenever making readings just in case they’re needed (and preferably on hand).
How does a ppm meter function?
A hydroponic ppm meter is a device that lets you know the concentration of nutrients in your water. It helps to ensure proper nutrient levels are kept during all stages of growth, which will also help plants be resistant to diseases and pests. The best type for home growers would have small probes where one end goes inside the reservoir or tank while the other stays outside so it can measure PPM levels accurately.
The root tip has specific receptors known as chemoreceptors that respond to certain concentrations of minerals around them, but they don’t do this alone! As long as there’s sufficient oxygen supply at all times then roots are able to function correctly through chemosynthesis, getting their nourishment from mineral salts dissolved within water instead of relying on the root tip to take in these minerals from the surrounding solution.
