Crazy levels Help!?

brian moran · Nov 1, 2019

So I have been battling alkalinity drop for months now. I do water changes every week and the tank is established over 3 years old now. 180 gallons. Alkalinity had settled in at a constant reading 0f 5.7 or so. I started using the brightwell aquatics powder version of 8.3 and literally have to dose it almost every day... Now I checked Calcium & Magnesium for the first time in quite a while and calcium is 300 magnesium 1600+. Any suggestions other than BIG water changes? Thanks,

PS Corals are growing fast & furious with a few casualties in the softies family over the last few months.

Righteous · Nov 1, 2019

Easiest thing is a good two part. I like esv b-ionic.

Tamberav · Nov 1, 2019

Wouldn't you just get a doser and a 2part system like BRS?

Kalkwasser is another option but may not keep up.

Calcium reactor is another.

Figure out your daily consumption by dosing.

brian moran · Nov 2, 2019

I did a 50 gallon water change this morning & readings still the same... Should I continue doing another 50 gallon water 3X in 3 days and dose after?... Then get a good 2 part? I figure the changes can get the tank close to 100% water volume change, thus getting the readings closer to where they need to be before starting with a good dosing system...???

hllb · Nov 2, 2019

What salt are you using and have you tested the fresh mixed water? Have you calibrated your refractometer lately?

I am switching from reef crystals because the fresh mixed water tests 2400 for the mg. I’m switching to Red Sea coral pro.

Righteous · Nov 2, 2019

Levels are just going to keep dropping after water changes. Theres no point in waiting to get a two part, you’re basically wasting money on more and more salt mix. You’ll almost certainly need to be dosing daily.