Are 0 nitrate readings normal for an established tank?

I've had my tank cycled since about May this year. I just did a water test, just to see that everything is going well still, and I got 0 ammonia, 0 nitrites, and 0 nitrates?? I do have consistent algae growth in my tank, that I clear off the front face but allow to grow otherwise on the surfaces since they are covered and you cant see it. Its just the brown algae coating, not crazy green plants, but could that be using the nitrates? PH is 7.6.

Or do you think I need to get a new API freshwater test kit? Perhaps mine is too old now?

I do water changes just about every 10 days, in a 10 gallon aquarium with 1 axie in it and a sponge filter.

Anyone?

How old is your Test kit? They are usually very accurate.. are you making certain you're shaking the bottles etc? I know the API master test kit nitrate test has very many steps (shaking, inverting etc) How planted is your tank?

Do you keep a check on your tapwater? Mine has nitrates in it so would show upif my test kit was ok. Or maybe you could get a second opinion from your local aquarium shop. Most will do water tests cheaply.

You should have some nitrates, so I imagine your test kit is expired. I agree with testing your tap water; it gives you a baseline reading for all of your water quality.

How old is your Test kit? They are usually very accurate.. are you making certain you're shaking the bottles etc? I know the API master test kit nitrate test has very many steps (shaking, inverting etc) How planted is your tank?

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It isnt supposed to expire until 10/2016. I shake the bejeezus out of the bottles, so I know its not that. There are many steps, but I'm sure I'm following them all! My tank is not planted whatsoever. There is a small bit of that brown algae on the sides of the tank, and most likely on the hide and fake plant, but I wipe it off the front of the tank because there it looks ugly. It grows back with in 7-10 days.

Do you keep a check on your tapwater? Mine has nitrates in it so would show upif my test kit was ok. Or maybe you could get a second opinion from your local aquarium shop. Most will do water tests cheaply.

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Both of these are good ideas. I will check the tap water and let you guys know. I havent checked my tap water since the beginning, when I learned there was no chloramines and the PH was great.

If my tap water isnt reading, I will take a trip to my favorite LFS and find out if they can get readings.

You should have some nitrates, so I imagine your test kit is expired.

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Pretty much what I was thinking. I mean, axies poop...a LOT.

Thanks for all the help guys!