First reef parameter testing: Ca Mg KH/Alk Salifert

[Goatonfly]

This is a two part post, first I want to share how easy the Salifert kits are to use. This is the first testing I've done for Ca, Mg, and KH/Alk because I'm getting everything in check before I start adding corals. My tank is about 10 months old now and it's doing great growing a ton of coralline.

At first, I thought "man, I hope they are simple to use." I was pleasantly surprised when they only took a min or two for each test. Super simple to run and read the results. So anyone wondering if they are going to be difficult, rest assured.

Alright part two. I did a 12.5% water change 5 days ago and wanted to test before doing another one in a few days.

My results were:
Ca 460
Mg 1290
KH 7.3

I was surprised by this, even though I have no coral I have coralline covering my rocks I figured would use some of the elements right? So I plan on testing again a day after my water change to see how much the parameters change with reef crystals.

Any input is always welcome.

 

[bertoni]

I am surprised a little that the alkalinity is that high. What does some freshly-mixed saltwater measure? In any case, a few days of measurement and dosing should give you a good idea of the consumption rate.

 

[Goatonfly]

I am surprised a little that the alkalinity is that high. What does some freshly-mixed saltwater measure? In any case, a few days of measurement and dosing should give you a good idea of the consumption rate.

I'll test it when I do the water change. Would it explain why I get white film on glass and powerheads after water changes?

 

[bertoni]

The alkalinity in the tank is safe and won't cause precipitation. How big are the water changes?

 

[Goatonfly]

Usually 12.5%, 5g in a 40b.

 

[bertoni]

A 12.5% change isn't all that large. I am not sure why you are seeing a white film. Is there any sign of cloudiness or precipitation in the newly-made saltwater?

 

[Goatonfly]

Not typically, I mix it in a bucket and add a powerhead heater for an hour or two.

 

[bertoni]

I might skip the heater, since it might cause a bit of precipitation, but I'm not sure what's happening. Hopefully, it's just a bit of an annoyance.

 

[Goatonfly]

I make water in my garage and it's freezing cold when I bring it in.

 

[bertoni]

Ah, I see. That'd be very cold. A bit of heating should be fine.

 

[Goatonfly]

First tests from yesterday night, second is from tonight after a water change this afternoon.

 

[bertoni]

Well, those numbers all are fine. Maybe the coralline isn't growing all that rapidly. It's hard to judge that, even in person.