AK confusion, help!

[lickyricky]

Hey guys,

So since I started my tank I have been using the “reef recipes” from Red Sea which recommend an AK of 11.5 and Ca of 450. I’ve also been using their chemicals for all my dosing. I decided to order the complete package from BRS (their 2 part system) and on their video posted on the product page he says “most reefers keep their alkalinity between 7 and 10, we keep ours at 9”. Well it seems in AK sense this is a huge disparity. I’ve also found it hard to keep the AK at 11.5 but that’s the only experience I have so it may be just as hard as any level.

What do you recommend? Is it harder to keep elevated levels? Why such a large disparity between Red Sea and BRS?

Any input would be appreciated!

 

[andyg1960]

I keep mine at about 9. The Red Sea Coral Pro salt mixes to a higher Alk, around 11.5 i think, and the Red Sea blue bucket mixes around 8 or 8.5. I believe that the Coral Pro is formulated for growing coral, and the blue bucket is more of a maintenance. Youll get lots of opinions here. I think 9 is a good place for my reef.