General Troubleshooting for the Korallenwächter
Measurement interruptions, fluctuations, failed measurements — here you'll find solutions for the most common problems with the Korallenwächter.
Measurement Aborted
If a measurement unexpectedly aborts, these are the most common causes and solutions:
- Outdated firmware — Check in the Typus app whether an update is available and perform it
- Unstable WiFi connection — The device needs a stable connection during measurement; check signal strength at the device location
- Brief connection dropout — Restart the device once (power cycle) and try again
Always keep firmware up to date. Most connection and measurement issues are resolved by updates.
Measurement Fluctuations
If consecutive measurements deviate significantly from each other, several factors may be involved:
External influences on water values
- Top-off water added — Adding fresh water temporarily dilutes all parameters. Wait 1–2 hours after topping off.
- Recently dosed — Dosing locally increases concentration. Measure at least 30 minutes after dosing.
- Shortly after a water change — Wait until the new water is fully mixed.
Sample collection
- Always collect samples at the same location in the tank — ideally in the main flow, not directly at an inlet or outlet.
- Make sure no air bubbles enter the sample.
Technical
- Cartridge nearly empty — With few measurements remaining, reproducibility may decrease. Insert a new cartridge.
- Outdated firmware — Perform an update.
Measurement Not Possible
If the device cannot start a measurement or does not deliver results:
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| "Chemicals not detected" error | Cartridge not properly seated | Remove and reinsert cartridge (keep device powered on) |
| No color change detected | Value outside measurable range | Use ICP analysis or another test to estimate values |
| Tube blocked | Deposits or kink | Check tubes and flush if necessary |
| Tubes swapped | Incorrect installation | Check installation instructions |
Device Disappears from App
If the device is no longer shown in the app:
- Tap "Add device" in the app and scan the device again
- Alternatively: disconnect the device from power for 10 seconds and restart
- Since app version 8.27.5, devices are saved across accounts — once added, it stays permanently linked
Natural Value Fluctuations
Small day-to-day fluctuations in measured values are completely normal. Aquarium water is a living system — corals consume parameters, dosing compensates for this, and neither happens in perfectly equal intervals.
Never judge a single measurement. Instead, look at the trend over several days. The Typus app shows you this progression directly in the chart.
Intervene only when the trend clearly moves in one direction — not for individual outliers.
Rule of thumb: only react after 3–5 consecutive measurements showing the same trend. A single outlier is usually a measurement inaccuracy, not a real problem.
Comparison with ICP Analyses
Deviations between the Korallenwächter and ICP are normal and not a sign of malfunction. The following deviations are acceptable and do not require recalibration:
| Parameter | Tolerance |
|---|---|
| KH | ± 0.1 °dKH |
| Calcium | ± 20 mg/l |
| Magnesium | ± 30 mg/l |
For a meaningful comparison: take the ICP sample and measure with the Korallenwächter simultaneously and at the same location.
For larger deviations, fine adjustment in the app is recommended.