Alkalinity problem

[tidepool2]

Hi Reefers,

This is the first time I've had a problem with my 65 gal. reef tank's dkh. Today I got a reading of 5. I usually get a reading of 8. My pH was 7.8 today - tested after the lights had been on for 8 hours. My calcium is 480. Can anyone tell me how I can get my dkh back to 8?

Thanks for your help!

 

[tidepool2]

I really appreciate any help you can give me. Thanks!

 

[dmits41]

Here's an article I just read when I had the same problem. It's about how to make a DIY solution to raise either calcium or alk. I followed the instructions exactly and had no problems.

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-02/rhf/index.php

 

[kgk]

Baking soda (soduim bicarbonate) can be used to raise your alk.
I use the calculator here: http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/store/reef-calculator
I basically follow the directions listed on the calculator.

 

[julie180]

Water changes.

 

[tidepool2]

Thanks so much for these helpful suggestions. I just did a 20% water change and added B-Ionic Alkalinity 30ml. I'll keep working with this over the next few days and hopefully I can bring my tank back into balance. Thanks again for your help, links, and info!

 

[victorcan]

esv bionic 2 part system alk and ca works well on a regular basis for me.. also kent and many others sell a dkh buffer power that you can drip dose to slowly rise the alk.. just make sure you go slow as you can crash the system if dumped in too much too fast.. havent used it in a while but it has worked baking soda .. water changes.. many options before you..

 

[RocketSurgeon]

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-06/rhf/index.php

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/subject/chemistry.php

 

[tidepool2]

Thanks victorcan!

Thanks for the links RocketSurgeon!

 

[ninjazx777]

I run my auto top off water through a kalk reactor to maintain my ph and alk

 

[goochesfish]

Check ur test kit too.