Finding a balance

[tanyamikephil]

Im confused. When I realized I was supposed to be testing alkalinity I bought a kit and tested. Low and behold it's high (5.02 meq/L) so I did some more research and come to find that the alkalinity is tied in with the PH and Calcium.

Apparently if you have been treating for low PH, which I have been, that will drive up the alkalinity. I didn't know this. I also had low Calcium which I have been treating and have brought that level almost back to normal (380 - 400 mmm) and apparently treating for low calcium will lower the PH and Alkalinity. Im so confused by this.

How can I to find a balance between these 3 things?

Thank you

 

[CStrickland]

Tweaking ph is a good way to get in trouble. It's usually not necessary in a salt water tank, and it can throw everything else out of whack. Ca, alk, and mg are your big three, that's the balance you want to focus on.

What do you have for coral in your tank?
What salt mix and water source are you using?
How often and how much do you change the water?
What is your magnesium level?