Can I dose kalkwasser? Or just ato

[Michael43]

im using 2 part currently with no issues but I would like to keep my ph more constant as well as get it higher if possible. I can't get above 8.2-8.25 during the day and drop to 7.95-8 at night. I'm not having any so to speak issues but want to see if this may help me. I'd prefer controlled dosing via a pump rather than through the ato always mixing it and water evaporates differently day to day so not sure how that method is as accurate as it is for everyone

 

[TRPlacek]

im using 2 part currently with no issues but I would like to keep my ph more constant as well as get it higher if possible. I can't get above 8.2-8.25 during the day and drop to 7.95-8 at night. I'm not having any so to speak issues but want to see if this may help me. I'd prefer controlled dosing via a pump rather than through the ato always mixing it and water evaporates differently day to day so not sure how that method is as accurate as it is for everyone

I don't see any issue with those ph ranges and if things are going good in your tank then I wouldn't change it.

 

[Michael43]

I'm more thinking for a new larger setup I will be soon getting going. Still the only question I have yet to answer. How to handle alk/CA

 

[bif24701]

You could do it like I do. I have it programmed to be added every 1/2 hour, set amount daily. I don't even have an ATO, I just monitor my ALK closely. This has several benefits. Much lower risk of over dose because there are few components to fail, I can easily adjust to net the ALK demands by increasing or decreasing the amount added. Helps maintain pH. I don't need to dose Two Part at all, not yet.

At the moment it perfectly matches my evaporation, but if not I just top off manually if needed.

Get a large container (brute trash can) and a ATO pump (aqua lifter or BRS 50ml/minute doser). A magnetic tube holder and place the intake 2-3" from the bottom. Mix Kalk to saturation and let it settle for an hour. Program pump and plumbing and let it do its thing. You will need to reduce the Two Part dosing or stop depending on demand. Monitor ALK daily until you know how much is needed. Frankly, to get the full benefit of pH rise you will won't to replace all top off water for Kalk water.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

im using 2 part currently with no issues but I would like to keep my ph more constant as well as get it higher if possible. I can't get above 8.2-8.25 during the day and drop to 7.95-8 at night. I'm not having any so to speak issues but want to see if this may help me. I'd prefer controlled dosing via a pump rather than through the ato always mixing it and water evaporates differently day to day so not sure how that method is as accurate as it is for everyone

If you are very concerned about stability, you can dose multiple times a day, either manually, dripping, or using a slow dosing pump on a timer.