Alkalinity is low....how to fix...

[sac10918]

Hi there
I just tested my alkalinity and it is low according to the recommendation. Salifert says it should be an 8, but mine is more like a 6.7-7.0
How can I remedy this? I dont like to put any additives or buffers in my tank. Will a water change help (I use natural ocean water)?
Also, my Calcium is low (340) and I would like to add my two part supplement, but I know calcium can affect the alkalinity and I don't want to drop my alk any more. Advice?

 

[teen]

if your using a 2 part additive, use the one that raises alk first. get your DKH to 8 or 9, then add the first part and try and get your calcium up, add the second one as needed to keep your DKH arond 8 or 9. remember to do this slowly, you dont want any spikes or drops.

 

[gwh57]

Originally Posted by sac10918
Hi there
I just tested my alkalinity and it is low according to the recommendation. Salifert says it should be an 8, but mine is more like a 6.7-7.0
How can I remedy this? I dont like to put any additives or buffers in my tank. Will a water change help (I use natural ocean water)?
Also, my Calcium is low (340) and I would like to add my two part supplement, but I know calcium can affect the alkalinity and I don't want to drop my alk any more. Advice?
I don't think you can get by without adding something for cal and alk unless it is a very small tank and you change lots of water.

 

[sac10918]

I do add a chemical for calcium, just not anything for alkalinity. I know alkalinity is affected by calcium, but I am not sure how exactly.

 

[moneyman]

Calcium and alkalinity are like boys and girls in the bar. They hold hands and go off somewhere together. In our tanks, that somewhere is the skeleton of corals, coralline algae, etc.
If you just add boys (calcium) , all the girls (alkalinity) will be taken. Eventually, you'll just have a bunch of boys looking for dates in your bar.
When the above happens, the mood (pH) will swing. There will be a lot of your mama jokes, sport/car talks, and bar fights. A bar with all guys ain't no fun - specially if you are looking for date for the night.
BTW: Magnesium is the bar music. If you have good mag level, the music is good. When the music is good, there will be a lot of boys and girls hanging around the bar, flirting, touching, giggling. When the music is bad, the boys and girls find each other and exit the door.
So, when you add calcium, add an equivalent part of alkalinity. Also, check your Mag level.
Anyone heard any good calcium bar jokes? jk

 

[gwh57]

Great explanation.

Now I am going home and belly up to the bar and have a drink.

Oh yea and watch the fish. :hilarious :hilarious