Adding trace elements to automated AWC tank

[paticus]

I have a 10 gallon waterbox reef tank, with two 5 gallon ATO and AWC tanks automated with Hydros Controller. Since the AWC is controlled with a daily schedule with a precise water change, can I add additives to the AWC tank and use the daily water change to add incremental elements into the tank?

 

[blaxsun]

Yes, although with the small size of your tank - the AWC may be enough to replenish most (if not all) of your trace elements.

 

[Garf]

I have a 10 gallon waterbox reef tank, with two 5 gallon ATO and AWC tanks automated with Hydros Controller. Since the AWC is controlled with a daily schedule with a precise water change, can I add additives to the AWC tank and use the daily water change to add incremental elements into the tank?

I believe as long as it’s diluted enough, yes

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Just to be clear, what exactly are you suggesting putting in it?

Some folks ask about trace elements when they really mean things like alkalinity and calcium.

 

[o2manyfish]

If you are going to be setting up dosing, it needs to be based on consumption by the organisms in the tank and not the evaporation rate of the tank.

This makes your dosing vary from season to season, from Days when the windows are open, to days when the heater runs, to days you turn a fan on in the room.

Your dosing additives which aren't being used by water evaporating, and now you're just accumulating additivies in the tank and building them up.

Dave B

 

[paticus]

I think I am trying to take a shortcut that is not worth doing..