? for RHF or experienced reefer using 2-part

[otrlynn]

I have been using Kent CB two part for about 6 months in my 58 gallon reef tank (light coral load--softies, LPS, a few SPS, lots of coraline algae on rocks and back glass) and I can't seem to get the dosing right. In general, I seem to need to add more of the part B (bicarbonate) than the part A (calcium). Today my parameters were:

S.G. 1.025
Alk 7.5
pH 7.8
Ca 500
Mag. >1280 (as high as my Red Sea test kit goes)

After adding 3 caps of part B, my alk rose to 9.0. Which is where I'd like to keep it. I did not re-test pH, but I assume it rose somewhat. Also the first test was taken right after the lights came on, so that probably also contributed to the pH being low.

So, although I understand that the 2-part system was designed to be used so that parts A and B ared dosed equally, when I add as much part A as B, it tends to drive my calcium up too high. I should say that my aquarium looks great, so I'm not really trying to correct a problem, just figure out how to best use the 2-part.

 

[otrlynn]

Bump. Hoping for a response. Also, to clarify, I added three capfuls of part B (that was not a typo for cups!!!).

 

[otrlynn]

Anyone?

 

[rogergolf66]

yes you can use only one part to balance out your system there is some good info (chart) on a balance range. it does not have to be perfectly balanced and it will be just about imposable to do so as some systems you more of one then another. you could also use a buffer to get the alk up. just remember that if you are unbalanced then the other will drop. meening if you have high alk then your cal will drop. That is if it is unbalance.

Retest your cal and alk to see what you are at now and see if you are where you want to by. don't get to stuck on trying to make it perfect 9.

Roger