Pros and Cons (Automatic Water Changes vs Dosing)

[Snookin]

I have a IM Fusion 20g that is a mixed reef. Due to my corals growing I need to either start dosing or start automatic water changes to keep up with CA and ALK demands. I currently do 20% WC once a week with no dosing.

I have an new APEX DOS and want to set it up this weekend. Deciding between 2 part (ESV) or automatic water changes (.5 gallon changes each day).

Which would you recommend?

 

[Rick.45cal]

Both!

Seriously. After installing an DOS to change water constantly I wouldn't wan't to do without it. Singularly the best thing I have ever done in reef keeping. That being said, you still need to dose 2 part to keep up.

 

[PatW]

Rick is right on this one.

Here is a thought example. Say your corals reduce DKH by 1 per week. To keep it stable, you have to do at least a 100 percent water change per week and preferably more. You can keep the system pretty stable by adding small amounts of 2 part.

Of course, your corals are going to be depleting more than we can easily test for: mg, Ca, and Alk. So doing regular water changes will hopefully supply the needed micro nutrients.