Do what you think is best.
But get the test strips there cheap,and its a good way to know your QF is OK.
Shelf life is about 2 years.But I take at least 6 months off that for safty reasons.And test it from time to time to make sure it hasen't broken down.
I have Randoms at work...So I just wait till they call me.Say i can't Piss yet.
And put it on a heating pad.Takes 1 hour to get to temp in my crotch.
Anything more I can't tell ya?
If you read my threads that covers everthing.