JeffDubya
02-03-2007, 09:12 PM
OK Folks, class is in session.
And no, I am NOT the instructor.
I know enough about my tanks chemistry to keep me in business. But that's it. And I should probably know more. So... I have started this thread so I can ask multiple rudimentary questions about water chemistry and related issues, in the hopes that through a better understanding of the whole process, I can create a healthier tank for my animals!
So, here's Question #1
How often should I test my water parameters? Currently, I test weekly (or close to it).
Question #2
When I first purchased my tank, it was recommended that I buy a pH test kit. However, as time went by, I also ended up buying a KH/dKH kit. It seems that from a lot of the discussions I hear and read, there is some confusion between these tests and what they actually measure, as they are fairly similar in nature. So, please explain the difference between pH and KH/dKH test kits to me.
Question #3
As a follow up to question 2, let's say my pH AND my KH are both low. So, I do the calculations, reach for my SeaChem additives and prepare to dose my tank. First, between the buffer (pH), Alkalinity and Calcium, in what order should I drip/dose? I know to leave at least 30 minutes between treatments. But does it matter what order I dose??
And no, I am NOT the instructor.
I know enough about my tanks chemistry to keep me in business. But that's it. And I should probably know more. So... I have started this thread so I can ask multiple rudimentary questions about water chemistry and related issues, in the hopes that through a better understanding of the whole process, I can create a healthier tank for my animals!
So, here's Question #1
How often should I test my water parameters? Currently, I test weekly (or close to it).
Question #2
When I first purchased my tank, it was recommended that I buy a pH test kit. However, as time went by, I also ended up buying a KH/dKH kit. It seems that from a lot of the discussions I hear and read, there is some confusion between these tests and what they actually measure, as they are fairly similar in nature. So, please explain the difference between pH and KH/dKH test kits to me.
Question #3
As a follow up to question 2, let's say my pH AND my KH are both low. So, I do the calculations, reach for my SeaChem additives and prepare to dose my tank. First, between the buffer (pH), Alkalinity and Calcium, in what order should I drip/dose? I know to leave at least 30 minutes between treatments. But does it matter what order I dose??