Calcium and Alk question

Salinity is 1.023, temp (dig. 81, glass in tank says 77)

4 days ago, the readings on my 38G (1 month old) tank were:

pH 7.8
Amm 0
Nitrite 0
Nitrate 5
Calcium 300
Alk 9 dkh
Phos .25

Each day, I have added 1 tsp of Seachem Reef Advantage Calcium. (I don't have a Mag test yet, but will very soon.)

It bumped from 300 to 320-340-340-360 over 4 days.

I also dosed once with Reef buffer to raise my pH from 7.8 to 8.0.

My Alk bumped also from 9 to 10-10-10-11 over 4 days.

Innovative Marine just released a new skimmer for the Nuvo tanks, and I am waiting for them to get into stores.

I also have done a 5G water change twice in the 4 days.

I'm planning to top off with SW until I read a salinity of 1.026.

I'd like to continue bumping my calcium to the 380-450 range.

Why is my Alk continuing to go up? Because I dosed for my pH 4 days ago? It's not related to my calcium supplement, correct?
 
The Reef Buffer did it. The Seachem Calcium does raise Mag some, so make sure you get the test. High mag isn't a big concern though.
 
what salt mix are you using? a PH buffer raises alk.
Another thing is what are you using to measure your salinity, cal and alk?
 
I agree that the pH buffers all are alkalinity supplements, despite any advertising to the contrary. I would dose the buffer based on the alkalinity level. :) It might be easier over the long term to dose a 2-part, either a commercial product or the DIY version. It's easier to keep the calcium and alkalinity in line with less testing, which is convenient.
 
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