A water analysis is a very important first step for any hydroponic system, regardless of type and size. If the water is to hard (high salt content), a Reverse Osmosis System must be used. A water analysis tests for the following:
Nitrate-Nitrogen, Ammonium-Nitrogen, Phosphate, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Boron, Copper, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Sodium, Sulfate, Fluoride, Chloride, Carbonates, Bicarbonates, pH, EC, Aluminum, Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Copper, Molybdenum, SAR, Alkalinity(mg CaCO3/liter), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Hardness