Switch from kalk to soda ash to safely lower ca?

[fryman]

I've had high calcium in my tank since starting it last year (~620 ppm). I used IO reef crystals which is high to begin with, and been using kalk for alk/ca maintenance.

I haven't really noticed issues with such a high calcium level but in the past week I thought I'd bring it back towards a more normal level. So I stopped dosing kalk and switched to soda ash for awhile. Still maintaining 8-8.5 dkh.

Calcium has so far dropped to 540 in a week. No new problems with coral as far as I can tell.

Is this plan ok? Am I dropping too fast?

 

[Spare time]

That's fine. I'd also not worry too much about high calcium but I understand wanting to bring it down.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Yes, that's a fine plan.

You might just switch to normal IO. I think it a better mix than Reef Crystals and the lower calcium will be offset by the kalkwasser. I used the two together for that purpose.

 

[ReeferLou]

Yes, that's a fine plan.

You might just switch to normal IO. I think it a better mix than Reef Crystals and the lower calcium will be offset by the kalkwasser. I used the two together for that purpose.

I am starting to do the same in alternating with RC and IO because my MAG was over 1500. IO has less MAG as well any my CALC dose was supplying MAG as well.
In what other ways do you consider it a better mix? Just curious. Thanks

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I am starting to do the same in alternating with RC and IO because my MAG was over 1500. IO has less MAG as well any my CALC dose was supplying MAG as well.
In what other ways do you consider it a better mix? Just curious. Thanks

I do not want organic matter in a salt mix, like the vitamins in RC.