JUST two-part??

cmjreef · Aug 18, 2012

I have a 120 mostly sps reef. It seems to take a lot of two-part to keep up with demands. I'm ok with this as I make my own and it's not overly expensive. My question is whether or not anyone thinks there is any detriment to this method. I'd say I'm adding about 200ml per day of A and B at this point to keep up with demand. Any reasons I shouldn't just keep it up? Thanks.

Poseidon · Aug 18, 2012

I don't see a problem other then the actual doing it... Are you using a doser to add that over time, or just adding it all at once?

MattL22 · Aug 18, 2012

Cmj reef do u add equal parts of 2part a/b?? Or more alk than cal??? Also any chance of a pic??

blackx-runner · Aug 19, 2012

I've heard large amounts of 2 part will increase the salinity over time, but if you check and adjust as necessary I don't think you would have a problem.
Its a big upfront cost, but a calcium reactor may be something to look into. Over time it will be the cheaper route.

cmjreef · Aug 19, 2012

I've used a reactor and didn't love it. Wound up with pH issues. I had a GEO, but just couldn't get it dialed without pH problems. I add two part manually throughout the day but it's a PITA, I really need some dosing pumps and I plan on getting some. I'll try to get a pic up soon. Tank looks pretty good, I just don't see the polyp extension I'd like or the growth rates. Chems are good ( Ca 430, pH 8.1, alk3.2, PO4 .03 ). Just not satisfied. Thx for the responses and keep your suggestions coming.

Henry C · Aug 19, 2012

Have you ever thought of using Kalkawasser along with dosing? I noticed when I stopped using kalk I had to increase the amount I had to dose.Also I didn't see a reading for Magnesium. Magnesium plays an important role in coral growth as well as Ca and Alk. IMO....

cmjreef · Aug 20, 2012

Yeah, I used Kalk just up until recently, but I'm going to go back to it. It looks like what I really need to do is get off my wallet and get a kalk doser and a dosing pump for my twopart. That's what I'm going to do. If anyone has suggestions in this regard, please share them; I'd love to know what dosers you all are using and why. I was considering BRS dosers because they seem to be pretty cost-effective. What do you think?