customdusty
New member
I currently top off with Kalkwasser which I mix in 5 gallon jugs, pour them into a 3 gallon trash can inside my stand, then pump with an Aqualifter to my sump - all controlled by an ATO with float switch. Seems to be working just fine, it is a simple and functional system and helps with my calc levels and keeps my pH up - especially during this time of year with the windows and doors closed for weeks on end. It is just annoying now because I have to keep rinsing out a series of alternating jugs because of the build up at the bottom (no stirring), not to mention the container inside my stand that is a pain to remove to clean out, and I have now gone through a couple of Aqualifters, and a whole bunch of airline hose. I have to re-fill a new 5 gallon jug with the kalkwasser every 3 days for about 1.5 gallons per day evaporation - If I miss a day or am a bit late replacing the jug - my aqualifter sucks air and let's me know it wants more water with the horrible sound it makes. Having only a 3 gallon reservoir actually connected to the top off doubles the number of times I need to be pouring the kalk into it from the 5 gallon jugs.
I am considering alternatives to make maintenance easier. Although I'd like to avoid spending the money right now - I'm getting pretty frustrated by lugging these jugs back and forth constantly. I'm limited with space so I simply can't add a huge container for top-off or connect direcly to a water source. There is a possibility that I could add a larger reservoir for the top off water - but wouldn't want to be putting kalkwasser in it without a stirrer because I won't be able to remove the reservoir to clean it and also don't want to submerge a pump in the kalk either.
My tank is doing great, I have most softies and LPS, a few SPS - would like to get more SPS and keep things mixed. Fish are happy - everything tests and runs fine - my only objective is to try and make things a little bit easier on myself with all of these jugs and trips back and forth and the mess I constantly make.
I am considering alternatives to make maintenance easier. Although I'd like to avoid spending the money right now - I'm getting pretty frustrated by lugging these jugs back and forth constantly. I'm limited with space so I simply can't add a huge container for top-off or connect direcly to a water source. There is a possibility that I could add a larger reservoir for the top off water - but wouldn't want to be putting kalkwasser in it without a stirrer because I won't be able to remove the reservoir to clean it and also don't want to submerge a pump in the kalk either.
My tank is doing great, I have most softies and LPS, a few SPS - would like to get more SPS and keep things mixed. Fish are happy - everything tests and runs fine - my only objective is to try and make things a little bit easier on myself with all of these jugs and trips back and forth and the mess I constantly make.
