Measuring

Utilising PHEC meters for measuring the water values is very important. In the Netherlands there is a saying ‘meten is weten'( measuring is knowing)

PH stands for ‘potential of hydrogen’ A PH meter measures the acidity or alkalinity of water-soluble substances.

EC or Electrical Conductivity of water is its ability to conduct an electric current. Salts or other chemicals that dissolve in water can break down into positively and negatively charged ions. Salinity and total dissolved solids (TDS) are used to calculate the EC of water, which helps to indicate the water’s purity. It is important to know the EC of your water because the choice of a nutrient can be affected by this. If your tap water has a high EC then this is considered ‘hard’ water and you need to choose a nutrient that has been designed for that purpose.

The PH value decides the absorbability of the nutrients in the water. Changes in temperature and the kind of nutrients used have a big influence on the PHEC levels. Some systems require special nutrients so that the PH and EC do not fluctuate. It is important that you use the correct nutrient for your system. Another important tip to remember is that most biological nutrients are not made to pass through thin drip lines and can block your drippers.
So it’s important you check and adjust regularly.
An EC meter allows you to measure the number of nutrients inside the water.
The EC of Biological nutrients can not be measured, the best option is to follow the nutrient schedule provided by the manufacturer
So you can always check if your plants get the nutrients they require.
PHEC meters are a must in every grow room.