wy the low alkalinity in new salt mix

[johnj]

iv just checked my red sea salt mix and at 26.8 c and 1.025 sg

my alkalinity is only 5.9 dkh with Hanna and 6.6 dkh salifert

would it be because I put to much salt into heated water to start (was off the pen it was that high) and temp was around 28-30c

I did notice lot of brown/sludge on heaters/pump in the bosh

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

That might be the case, yes. Or it might be test error or a bad batch.

 

[Dr. Reef Verified Sponsor]

Heat will precipitate alkalinity.
If you let the pump mix the salt for days, eventually heat from pump will start to reduce alkalinity down and you will see sludge and white snow in water.
Would recommend to mix salt at normal temps 74F-78F and let it mix for only as much time as water runs clear normally 30 to 45 min.
Then shut all pumps and heat sources and let it sit stagnant.

 

[Mjl714]

Heat will precipitate alkalinity.
If you let the pump mix the salt for days, eventually heat from pump will start to reduce alkalinity down and you will see sludge and white snow in water.
Would recommend to mix salt at normal temps 74F-78F and let it mix for only as much time as water runs clear normally 30 to 45 min.
Then shut all pumps and heat sources and let it sit stagnant.

Do you recommend exposing to air or keep saltwater in closed container / Brute.?

 

[Dr. Reef Verified Sponsor]

I would cover it to protect from contaminants but not seal it air tight. Let some air exchange happen and let it evaporate if necessary.

 

[johnj]

That might be the case, yes. Or it might be test error or a bad batch.

can I still use this 160 ltr of mix water because all calc/mag levels are ok! could I just bump up the alk with some red sea foundations B alk ?

will have to mix small batch up next to see if its the salt

 

[Dr. Reef Verified Sponsor]

You can use the water.
Try mixing some alk in a small batch first to see if it mixes well or precipitation happens.
My guess is you will be fine mixing some alk in it but test it in a small batch first.

 

[johnj]

You can use the water.
Try mixing some alk in a small batch first to see if it mixes well or precipitation happens.
My guess is you will be fine mixing some alk in it but test it in a small batch first.

thanks" lucky iv got no corals yet and just fish for use with this water!

I put a heater in tub that had a sticking stat and left in for to long! will not do that silly thing again!

 

[Dr. Reef Verified Sponsor]

For fish only system just match salinity and use this water. No problem there.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

can I still use this 160 ltr of mix water because all calc/mag levels are ok! could I just bump up the alk with some red sea foundations B alk ?

will have to mix small batch up next to see if its the salt

yes, you can boost the alk. Any alk additive or baking soda is fine.

 

[LadyTang2]

yes, you can boost the alk. Any alk additive or baking soda is fine.

If you add only alk over a longer period, when do you worry about that extra sodium and ionic imbalance?