I'll tell ya, I had no intention of buying yet another test kit after spending $53 on a perfectly good kit. I have the Taylor 1005, and after I use it up I'll get either the TF-100 or the K-2006C. No speedstir, I don't need it. I used to do titrations for a living, and my swirling technique is as good as any mag stirrer.
What I did, when I found out the extra tests I'd need, I bought add-on tests for FAS-DPD and CYA. I think we should start suggesting that instead of insisting on buying $100 kits right off the bat. I paid around $15 for the FAS-DPD kit and $30 for the CYA kit. Yes, it was about the same cost as the TF-100, but I didn't waste the 1005 kit. When it's time to replace it, I'll get the TF-100.
The point I'm trying to make is this. I agree there's a bit of a YOU MUST DO THIS OR BEGONE WI' YE!!! feel when it comes to the test kits and testing. Yes, people need to bite the bullet and learn to do their own chemistry, but most people have never been in a chemistry lab much less done a titration, and not everyone is a geek like me and enjoys messing with tests and chemicals! We need to figure out a way to convince these types of newbies in a gentler, kinder way to become baby chemists. Maybe suggest a child or neighbor could learn to do the testing. Or a spouse.
I don't mean to ruffle feathers, but surely there's a better way to welcome people than "Welcome, get a test kit and then you may speak!"
