DKH Question

[brokewithatank]

My DKH tests out just below 8 every time I test. I was just wondering if this is too low.
SG: 1.025
Temp: 78
Nitrates: 0
Ph: 8.1
Calcium: >430
I read that a DKH of 8-12 is a target range. When I do the titration it just starts to change at 7 and makes the complete change at 8, so I am guessing the DKH is about 7.5 or so.
Any thoughts on this? Is this too low?
Thanks for your input.

 

[dcrawford]

I have the same exact measurements and issue with my dkh. I also drip Kalk. Read some of the archives on the subject, there is a lot of info to understand what could be going on. Based on charts you should be at 9.8 dkh with your calcium at 430. In theory/reality, if you drip Kalk both Calcium and dkh should be stable, but you first have to get to the right CA and dkh levels, then you have to slowly get to the right Kalk richness. Read about dripping Kalk in the archives, there are some good threads on the subject.
I have yet to get to that stable kalk dripping so I am adding a buffer for my dkh until I get there. Now trying vinegar to see it's affect. slowly...

 

[nietzsche]

i think depending on what you would like to keep it could be a little higher but its ok. if you want to raise alkalinity only look into baking soda.. depending on your pH, you may have to cook your baking soda to raise a low pH, or leave the baking soda the way it is if your pH is high. go to www.google.com and search for an article called "An Improved Do-it-Yourself Two-Part Calcium and Alkalinity Supplement System" very informative on how to make your own two-part solution instead of buying from your store. i just ordered my own magnesium and calcium chloride and have the alkalinity part at my house (baking soda). watch your pH and alk readings when youre dosing
once you have everything put together, you can look at the online calculator to see what your dosage should be: http://reef.diesyst.com/ and take it easy on the dosing and test for what you dose

 

[larryndana]

lets take a few steps back....
your alk is on the low side, i would add something like kents superbuffer dkh to your water when your mixing it.
I wouldn't suggest dripping or doseing unless your levels drop between water changes.
So, whats your setup. and what kind of corals you keeping? if your keeping sps then i'd say start looking at dripping and dosing. if your keeping zoos and or mushrooms....softies....i wouldn't do nothing. well except i'd keep my alk on the higher end.
keeping your alk high helps keep your PH more stable.

 

[nietzsche]

i wouldnt add any of those products without knowing what theyre going to your tank exactly

 

[bang guy]

It's on the low end of OK IMO. Natural reef alkalinity levels are around 6 dKH just to give you a reference point.
Make sure your Magnesium isn't low as well or you won't be able to maintain Alkalinity.