Vodka dosing
- Thread starter JustinC
- Start date
- Tagged users None
Well, Im not from around there, but I do it.
Ive been doint it for a couple years now. I've got no troubles with it. I'd recommend it if you don't like doing a truck load of water changes or buying a $1000 skimmer to keep your water parameters in check.
JustinC
Active Member
I was using pellets on my old tank, just never could seem to get the results I was hoping from them. I did have beneficial results just not to the extent I think I should have. I think I'll try the vodka die a while and see how it goes. Worse case is I go back to pellets someday if it doesn't work. Also found this write up about VD, gots some good info http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2008-08/nftt/index.php
Step by step instructions. But this step by step takes months. I recommend bumping up 5mls a week instead of just one. This will make the process go a bit faster.
Melevsreef.com - Dosing Vodka to Lower Nitrate & Phosphate
Right, and it took, what, 9 months. Thats why I advise bumping 5mls a week.
Osteoclast
Community Member
Biopellets seem to be the number one choice of people in this Nashville area--I suspect due to their experience and history. While pellets can give excellent results, vodka and vinegar are easier to dose and control in my view and the view of others I know and respect. I personally like the control factor with a titratable liquid and a timer. I use vinegar but vodka is fine as well. All you need is a dosing pump. Randy Farley noted chemist and reef guru is a proponent of these two carbon choices over the other options. But it is a comfort factor and personal: to each his own.
You may end up around 8-10. So figure your going to get up to 16-20 before your trates start to come down.
JOKER
2500 Club Member
It cleared my tank up, then I went to pellets. Should have stayed with the vodka. Tank looks terrible right now. Thinking of getting back to it. Could one use the pellets and vodka for a short time??
I wouldn't use them both at the same time.
