Ill search for my problem witht he Ph before I add anything. As for the ALK I am getting a test for it tomorrow I never tested for it before so that right there could be the problem. The flow is 22x's. As for the skimmer I have given up on it for now becuase I had the Seaclone 150 and it just always needed something done to it everyday and for the past few days it was spitting nothing but bubbles out and it just didnt make the tank look nice, pretty much wasnt doing its job, so I am going to see if I could get along without one for now until I get some cash. I know its not reccomended but if I dont have a skimmer what would be the best way to keep good quality water, water changes every week? And if so how much would you reccomend for a 45g?