My Experiences Using Kalkwasser

[Genicanthus-R-Us]

So today I have decided to share my experience with a decently controversial additive, kalkwasser. After a lot of research on what approach I wanted to take on dosing for my IM 50 lagoon, I decided I wanted to do a hybrid approach (using Kalk combined with 2-part). After buying BRS’ pharma kalkwasser starter kit (an absolute bargain for those looking to start), I used the recommended starting dosage of 3/4 tsp per gallon and adjusted my levels to a calcium level of 480 and an alkalinity of 10. 2 months later and the Kalk alone has kept my levels rock solid.

The method I’m using currently adding 7 teaspoons of Kalk powder to my 10 gallon ATO reservoir and allowing the ATO to do all the work. My tank currently has 15 or so SPS/Acro frags and a few LPS frags including a large Goni colony I have. All corals are doing great and I have noticed an increase in growth and coloration due to my levels staying solid. I would highly recommend BRS’ kalkwasser starter kit for anyone new to and/or intimidated by dosing.

(FTS because why not)

 

[Flippers4pups]

So today I have decided to share my experience with a decently controversial additive, kalkwasser. After a lot of research on what approach I wanted to take on dosing for my IM 50 lagoon, I decided I wanted to do a hybrid approach (using Kalk combined with 2-part). After buying BRS’ pharma kalkwasser starter kit (an absolute bargain for those looking to start), I used the recommended starting dosage of 3/4 tsp per gallon and adjusted my levels to a calcium level of 480 and an alkalinity of 10. 2 months later and the Kalk alone has kept my levels rock solid.

The method I’m using currently adding 7 teaspoons of Kalk powder to my 10 gallon ATO reservoir and allowing the ATO to do all the work. My tank currently has 15 or so SPS/Acro frags and a few LPS frags including a large Goni colony I have. All corals are doing great and I have noticed an increase in growth and coloration due to my levels staying solid. I would highly recommend BRS’ kalkwasser starter kit for anyone new to and/or intimidated by dosing.

(FTS because why not)

I've used Kalkwasser in my ato top off now for years. Works well.

 

[nereefpat]

Nice tank! And I love kalkwassser. It's underused, imo.

I know a lot of folks use kalk in an ATO. That's okay. But if you live in an area where temperature and humidity fluctuate (drastically here in the Midwest), you'll have to make adjustments. A doser would be more ideal.

Can I ask why a kit, instead of Mrs. Wages from the grocery store for a few bucks?

 

[ReefGrammie]

Interesting info! I was just thinking about my calcium levels today and never thought of putting kalk in my ATO!

 

[Genicanthus-R-Us]

Nice tank! And I love kalkwassser. It's underused, imo.

I know a lot of folks use kalk in an ATO. That's okay. But if you live in an area where temperature and humidity fluctuate (drastically here in the Midwest), you'll have to make adjustments. A doser would be more ideal.

Can I ask why a kit, instead of Mrs. Wages from the grocery store for a few bucks?

It’s just under $40 and it comes with 2 pounds of Kalk and 1 gallon each of the 3 major elements for general adjustments. I know Mrs. wages is commonly used and is cheap, but I believe BRS’ additives to be the highest quality and don’t mind spending a few extra bucks to shop with them.

 

[TexasReefer82]

Have you measured the pH of the tank through the day to observe what effect the Kalk additions have?

I also use kalk but at about 1/4 strength (1 tablespoon per 5 gallons) of saturation in my ATO reservoir. I settled on this dose because higher concentrations caused me pH spikes and actually cemented together my substrate.

Kalk is great stuff when correctly used.