Any one buffer better then the other

[acrodave]

My alk has been about 7dkh here the past few months and cant seem to get it up. the drop is because my acos have now spurred a lot of growth since going over to zeo. i use tropic marine alk test. i have been using the pro buffer. thought about using some super buffer..Is there any other kind that would be worth it or are they all about the same

 

[drparker]

I would stay away from using "Buffers" and switch to a 2-part additive. Several commercial versions are sold plus in the Chemistry forum Randy has a recipe for making your own. Bulk reef supply sells the dry chemicals ready to mix with water. I figure it's a 10th of what I was spending.

Do you measure your magnesium? If it's really low it can be hard to balance alk and calcium at higher levels.

Also check-out the chem calculator

 

[acrodave]

I know everyone uses it and that it works. I just dont trust household chemicals in my tank.. My ca is about 400-440

 

[drparker]

I wouldn't classify these as your standard household chemicals. They are dry powders and crystals of high purity calcium chloride, magnesium sulfate, magnesium chloride etc.. I actually trust it more than commercial since I don't know the quality and purity of their additives.

Commercially made versions are Ocean, TLF C-Balance, ESV B-Ionic and Kent M. I would defiantly check your mag level, might be why you can't get alk up.