Probes & Controller Accessories
Whether you're running a full Apex or a compact Hydros unit, probes and accessories are what bring your controller to life. This collection includes essential gear like pH, ORP, temperature, and salinity probes — plus all the supporting parts that make everything work together smoothly.
From sensor cables and magnetic mounts to calibration fluids and replacement adapters, these components help maintain accurate readings and reliable automation. They're easy to overlook until you need them — but they’re the backbone of any stable, well-monitored reef system.
Whether you’re expanding your setup, replacing a worn-out probe, or just organizing your wire management, this collection has what you need to keep things running cleanly and confidently.
Choosing the Right Probe or Accessory for Your System
pH, ORP, Temperature & Salinity Probes
These are the core sensors used to track your tank’s stability. pH probes help regulate dosing, ORP probes offer insights into oxidation and water cleanliness, temperature probes protect against heater failure, and salinity probes keep your salt levels in check. Both Hydros and Neptune offer reliable models for each, and they're easy to replace or calibrate when needed.
Calibration & Maintenance Supplies
Proper readings depend on regular calibration. You’ll find calibration fluids for pH, conductivity, and ORP, along with probe storage solutions to keep sensors performing well over time. These are small details that make a big difference in long-term reliability.
Sensor Cables, Adapters & Mounting Hardware
Need a longer cable? A replacement magnetic mount? This section includes the bits and pieces that make installations cleaner and more flexible. Whether you're rerouting wiring, organizing probe holders, or adding redundancy, these accessories help get the job done without a mess.
Hydros & Neptune-Specific Accessories
We carry branded accessories tailored to each controller ecosystem. For Neptune Systems, that includes AquaBus cables, FMM modules, and probe racks. For Hydros, you’ll find drive port cables, sense port adapters, magnetic holders, and waterproof sensor housings.
Optimizing Probe Accuracy & Accessory Use
Calibrate Regularly, Not Just When Something Seems Off
Don’t wait for your pH or salinity to drift noticeably before recalibrating. Most probes benefit from calibration every 4–6 weeks. Use fresh, unopened calibration solutions for best results — old fluid gives false confidence.
Rinse Probes Between Fluids
When calibrating or cleaning, always rinse probes with RO/DI water between steps. Cross-contamination between solutions is one of the easiest ways to throw off your readings.
Use Mounting Racks or Holders for Stability
Loose probes floating in your sump can give inconsistent data. Secure them in low-flow areas using probe holders or magnetic mounts. A stable position ensures stable readings — especially for salinity and temperature.
Check for Bubbles in Conductivity Probes
Air bubbles can get trapped in salinity probes and mess with accuracy. Gently tap the probe under water during setup or calibration to dislodge any trapped air.
Organize Your Wires Early
Don’t let cords pile up around your sump. Use zip ties, cord clips, or Velcro to group power, sensor, and dosing lines separately. Clean cable management makes probe swaps easier and reduces the risk of unplugging the wrong thing.
Expert Tips
- Label Every Cable and Sensor
Once everything is installed, label your cables and probes at both ends. It’s easy to forget what’s what, especially if you’re using multiple sensors or doing future upgrades. A little masking tape and a marker go a long way. - Keep Spare Probes on Hand
Having a backup pH or temp probe can save you a headache if one fails unexpectedly. Probes don’t last forever — having a spare ready can keep your system stable while you troubleshoot or replace. - Avoid Running Probe Wires Next to Power Cords
Interference from power cables can throw off your probe readings. Keep signal cables (like those from your probes) away from power wires, especially from return pumps or lights. - Use Redundancy for Critical Parameters
Some reefers run two temp probes — one for control, one for monitoring. That way, if your heater sticks or fails, your controller can sound the alarm before livestock are affected. - Clean Sensors with the Right Tools
Avoid harsh chemicals or scrubbing pads. Use only probe-safe cleaners and soft cloths or cotton swabs. For stubborn salt creep, soak the tip in RO/DI water and gently rinse.
