How often should Eagle Ray strips be replaced for reliable results?

[Ananya Agarwal]

I’ve been using the same batch of Eagle Ray strips for a few months now. I’m wondering if test strip age can affect reading accuracy. Is there a recommended time period for replacing strips to ensure reliable results?

 

[Krzysztof Petrov]

I go by the expiration date first, but once a bottle is opened I usually treat strips as most reliable for about 6–12 months, depending on storage. If the cap sits open a lot, they’ve been exposed to humidity (equipment room/bathroom), the pads look faded, or results suddenly get inconsistent, I replace them sooner, sometimes within a few months. For the numbers that really matter (sanitizer, pH), if strips start making me doubt them I’ll cross-check once with a drop test so I’m not chasing bad readings.

 

[Afiq Tan]

What usually makes strips go “wonky” is humidity and leaving the bottle open too long, so even before the printed expiration date they can drift, which lines up with what Krzysztof mentioned. If I were you, once the bottle is opened I’d treat them as most reliable for about 6–12 months if they’re kept sealed and dry, but replace sooner if they’ve been stored warm/humid or readings start jumping around. My simple replace triggers are fading pads, inconsistent results, or when I catch myself second-guessing every single test.