View Full Version : alk


The Shan Man
02-02-2007, 10:59 AM
My alk is at 5.5 meq/l... What does everybody run theres at??? Or what system to you guys measure it at???

Rob
02-02-2007, 11:34 AM
proper level is about 3.5-4 meg/L or 9-11 dKH

The Shan Man
02-02-2007, 12:32 PM
So I need to lower my levels??? I have not added anything as far as additives.. I use reef crystals.

Tank Para..

Ammonia 0
Nitrite 0
Nitrate 0
PH 8.2
Alk 5.5
Temp 78
SG 1.025
Cal 380
Mag 1200
Phos .1

I am going to be adding some phosban this weekend to suck the phosphates out. I am just trying to get my water closer to sea levels. I know I am close but not there yet.

graveyardworm
02-02-2007, 05:26 PM
Can you post other parameters like Ca and Mg. The three Alk, Ca, and Mg are closely related and effect eachother. So high alk can be an indicator of low Ca, Mg, or both.

Also do you test your newly mixed salt?

The Shan Man
02-04-2007, 12:02 PM
they are up there

graveyardworm
02-04-2007, 12:16 PM
Man thats the second time I've done that, I dont know if its the blue highlighting catching my eye or what, anyway Mg is a little bit low, should be 1350-1500. Any idea what your new mixed salt tests at?

The Shan Man
02-04-2007, 01:03 PM
I am going to be mixing some salt today so I will post... I am using Reef Crystals.

George
02-06-2007, 10:07 AM
I have been told by some that Mg should be a bit over 3x your Ca reading. Is that too low then?

Rob
02-06-2007, 01:24 PM
nope 3x is what your shooting for
450 x 3 = 1350
again this a target, and an easy way to remember the formula.. :)