Calcium problem, too low

[Sparg93]

Hey guys, i'm pretty new to the reef world and have been slowly adding coral to my tank (only a few pieces)

Unfortunately my Calcium level is 250 and i can't seem to raise it. I keep my salinity at 2.024, Alkalinity is "normal", ph is 8.3, and ammonia/nitrite/nitrate is 0. I also use RO water.

I just did a 20% water change using Coralife Sea Salt (been using the whole time) and it did nothing to raise my Calcium.

My rock is encrusted with thick coraline and all the coral looks great, any recommendations??

I bought the ESV B_Ionic Calcium and Alkalinity buffer system but it doesn't seem to raise the Calcium.

Is it possible that my Calcium tester is bad??

Very confused, please help

Hobby Experience: Beginner w/saltwater

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

You need to add a large amount of calcium chloride, or just the calcium part of B-ionic.

This calculator shows how much to use,and this article details the process:

Reef Chemicals Calculator
http://home.comcast.net/~jdieck1/chem_calc3.html

Solving Calcium and Alkalinity Problems
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/nov2002/chem.htm

 

[Sparg93]

Great, thanks Randy!

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

You're welcome.

Good luck.

 

[Sparg93]

If i drop the additive in front of the return the stuff will get blown throughout the tank and right on my fish, is that ok?

Or should i add it near the return pump in my sump that way it gets mixed with more water before it touches the fish?

Any recommendations?

Thanks!!

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

I'd add it in the sump and let it mix in there before going to the return pump.

 

[Sparg93]

As always, ur the best!! Thanks!:beer:

 

[The Haj]

Calcium

Calcium

You might try dropping your salinity as well!

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

You might try dropping your salinity as well!

:lol:

yes, at a specific gravity of 2.024 it would be rather thick.

Thanks!

You're welcome.

Good luck.