I do about 10% water changes every week on my 75g tank and I noticed that my calcium and alkalinity goes up without dosing. My calcium risises from 460 to 480-490 and alk 8.0 to 8.3-8.4....isnthis normal??? I have in my tank frogspawn, hammer, torch, BTA, some zoas, elagance duncan, XENIA, GSP and birds nest. Didn't start happening until I added the birds nest but I was under the impression sps consumes calcium and alk more than other coral. Anybody know what's going on?
Calcium and alkalinity Rising without dosing??
- Thread starter Drew D.
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GoVols
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The next time you mix a new batch of fresh saltwater check it's parameters.
Also, There was some bad batches of BRS .35 solution that got out to the public.
John Rebman
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I don't have answer to your question but have a similar concern. My alkalinity is way too high and don't know how to decrease it other than massive water changes.
I haven't dosed in several months yet if is still in the low teens. My calcium is also quite high.
Is there anything out there that I can use to bring if down.
I added a lps hoping in would used up the excess.
I also have numerous baby snails which should be using up both right?
I haven't dosed in several months yet if is still in the low teens. My calcium is also quite high.
Is there anything out there that I can use to bring if down.
I added a lps hoping in would used up the excess.
I also have numerous baby snails which should be using up both right?
I'm not too sure but I know Magnesium plays a role in it too. In my case my Mag has been dropping while the alk and calcium has been raising. Although my parameters don't seem as out of wack as yours I figured I'd try to tackle the issue before it becomes a real problem. Definitely a question for a real experienced reefer.
John Rebman
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I have checked and adjusted my Mag so if is dead on.
My tank is 150g and I even did 50 % water change. If same down a little but has gone back up.
I sent figure out where the source is!
John Rebman
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That's can't figure itbout....gotta love this auto correct
Sounds like we're in the same boat! I just did a water change today so I'll test my parameters later and see what I get. I'm almost thinking it has something to do with my salt. What salt do you use?
Randy Holmes-Farley
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There are a number of things that can boost alk and/or calcium.
Be sure to check the water change water. It may be higher than you assume.
Kit error may also be involved.
Tap water can boost both.
Artificial rock using cement can boost them, especially alk, if not properly cured.
Dropping nitrate fast an boost alk.
Salinity changes can alter everything.
Be sure to check the water change water. It may be higher than you assume.
Kit error may also be involved.
Tap water can boost both.
Artificial rock using cement can boost them, especially alk, if not properly cured.
Dropping nitrate fast an boost alk.
Salinity changes can alter everything.
John Rebman
Community Member
I am using Fritz Reef Pro. The values on the WC water are good so I don't think it's caused by water changes.
In just read not to use a buffer for PH adjustment. I have been trying to get my PH up to 8.3 (typically in the 7.9 to 8.1 area ) so have been using a buffer. I'll stop that for awhile and see what happens.
Also think I'll try a few water changes with a non reef salt mix.
In just read not to use a buffer for PH adjustment. I have been trying to get my PH up to 8.3 (typically in the 7.9 to 8.1 area ) so have been using a buffer. I'll stop that for awhile and see what happens.
Also think I'll try a few water changes with a non reef salt mix.
John Rebman
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Thanks for the info on dropping nitrates having affect. I have been dosing with vodka to get my nitrates under control
Stigigemla
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High magnesium value and low pH might cause that calcium dissolves from sand and rock.
I have a few hints of possible ways to get out of the situation.
1. Bigger skimmer. Its good if the skimmer draws more than a tank volume of air per hour.
2. More stone corals.
3. Less fish. I believe You have much to much fish as You are changing 10% water each week and still needs vodka to diminish the nitrate level.
I have a few hints of possible ways to get out of the situation.
1. Bigger skimmer. Its good if the skimmer draws more than a tank volume of air per hour.
2. More stone corals.
3. Less fish. I believe You have much to much fish as You are changing 10% water each week and still needs vodka to diminish the nitrate level.
