Adding Kalk to top-off?

[danferd2002]

I want to start using kalkwasser on my reef, and i was wondering if i can just mix it into my top off water? I use a 5 gal bucket with a JBJ ATO, and the 5 Gal. lasts about a week. Is this too long for it to be siiting, or do i have to get a reactor? Thanks, Dan

 

[SaltyDr]

You should be fine. There is a good article on this in Reefkeeping and there should be no problems using this system.

 

[danferd2002]

ok great ill check out the article, thanks

 

[kysard1]

I just started doing this, it makes life so much easier.

My only concern is if the float sticks and the ATO pumps all 5 gallons in at once. So I use a small peristaulic pump, that way if the float sticks it will be somewhat gradual.

 

[MarkGP]

I've been doing this for about two years now. I add one teaspoon of kalk for five gallons of top off water controlled by a JBJ ATO. No problems so far!

 

[kysard1]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11044717#post11044717 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MarkGP
I've been doing this for about two years now. I add one teaspoon of kalk for five gallons of top off water controlled by a JBJ ATO. No problems so far!

I have to use one teaspoon per gallon to maintain alkalinity. Are you using 2-part in addition ?

 

[danferd2002]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11044282#post11044282 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kysard1
I just started doing this, it makes life so much easier.

My only concern is if the float sticks and the ATO pumps all 5 gallons in at once. So I use a small peristaulic pump, that way if the float sticks it will be somewhat gradual.

But the only float that woluld stick is the one in the bucket, and all that does is prevent the system from pumping water if the water level is too low in the bubket so the worst that could happen is the pump would run dry. Not pump too much.

 

[SDguy]

There's no float switch in the sump? How does it know when to turn on/off?

 

[Sally]

What issue of reepkeeping magazine was this. Do you have a link?
Thanks in advance.

 

[a2fire2i]

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2005-01/rhf/index.php