I don't think there is the server space to list all of my mistakes in detail so I will stick with my most recent. Hopefully I can provide some insight and help someone avoid the same issue. Recently I decided to upgrade to a better pH meter so I set my sights on the HM Digital pH200 waterproof tester (retails around $100) My local hydrofarm guy sells his at $115, he offered a $10 loyal customer discount bringing it to $105+tax. I found the exact one on amazon for $80 shipped and figured what the hell, I will get it quicker and save $30 in the meantime, getting two birds stoned at once...er.... Well it came in the mail today and like a child at christmas I tore into the packaging anticipating what it will feel like in my hand. Solid and sturdy I instantly had fantasies about holding it underwater like a nerdy step-brother. (my last one WASN'T waterproof). Much to my dismay the thing came calibrated and was in storage solution. Normally that would be a convienence but I live on the UP, it is cold here, and needless to say the shit was frozen. So here I sit with a busted ass ph pen, my hydro guy laughing at me, and a cycle ready to get underway with no pH control.... am I fucked, hardly, but I am depressed. Good thing I have a good stash of the super silver haze to ease my sorrows. Luckily I have maintained a good rapport with my local shop owner. He is going to deal with the warranty work for me (even though I didn't purchase it through him) AND loan me HIS personal ph200 until my shit is back on track. Already worth the extra $30 I spent there.... BUY LOCAL, SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY AND THEY WILL SUPPORT YOU!
I am learning also, ordered seeds, they came a few weeks later, sat in the mailbox at -10 below zero! Who knows how long they were in freezing temps the two weeks it took me to recieve them? Note to self; order seeds when it is warm out! I bought all of my stuff from Dave at indoorgrowsource and he has been great. Probably the next best thing to buying local (closest grow supply to me is about 300 miles from here!) I had a few minor problems and he replaced things for me at no charge and in a timely manner. I email him with questions all the time, he usually answers them within a few hours.