Current UK price examples
| Service | Checked price | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| Fauna Marin Reef ICP Test Set S | £20.99 | Small mail-in ICP route; check the current analyte list before ordering |
| Reef Zlements ICP Advanced | £35.99 | Broader trace-element snapshot; lab coverage and turnaround are the buying questions |
| ATI ICP OES/MS seawater + RO | £54.99 | Premium option that includes seawater and RO-water testing in the listed service |
What ICP is good at
It is useful when a broad element panel could explain a persistent issue, when you suspect contamination, or when a salt, additive or source-water change needs a before-and-after snapshot. It can also flag that a home-kit result deserves a second look.
What ICP cannot prove
A result is a sample from one moment, not a time series. It does not prove why an element moved, whether a trace element is biologically required at a particular level, or which product should be dosed next. A strange value can come from sampling, shipping, contamination or a lab-method limitation. Do not make several corrective doses from one isolated number.
How to take a useful sample
- Use the lab’s supplied container and follow its fill and mailing instructions.
- Rinse hands and tools; avoid touching the inside of the lid or bottle.
- Record salinity, temperature, recent water changes, dosing and the date beside the sample.
- When the report arrives, compare it with your own home-kit trend and source-water notes.
When the extra cost is justified
For a stable, uncomplicated system, routine home testing usually answers the actionable questions more cheaply. ICP earns its place when the tank is unexplained, a contamination concern is plausible, or you are auditing a new salt or dosing approach. Treat the report as evidence to investigate, not a shopping list.
Sources and limitations
The distinction between ICP and routine monitoring follows the practical guidance in Charterhouse Aquatics’ ICP guide. Current UK service examples were checked at UK Aquatics, Stockport Marine and Koi and Finest Aquatics. We have not used these services or independently assessed lab turnaround.