Kalkwasser

[raceraj8]

I am considering dripping kalk. I dont have the money right now to buy a calcium reactor. Is this a good alternative? I have heard mixed reviews on this method.
thanks

 

[old salty]

It's a bit different, but will certainly do your system some good.

I think that most people get calcium reactors because they have high demands that require it. SPS dominated tanks require more calcium than dripping limewater can provide. I have and SPS dominant tank, but they are small frags. Limewater dripped for topoff is able to maintain the calcium as well as alkalinity and pH (pending your demands for it of course.) I'm sure in a few years, I will have to step up to a reactor or figure out a way to dose Randy's 2 part over long terms.

I hope that helps you a bit.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

I've used only limewater for the past 10+ years. It is a fine method. The only limitations are the potential for high pH, and the limited amount that can be added which may not meet the demands for calcium and alkalinity in very high demand tanks.

This article has more:

What Your Grandmother Never Told You About Lime
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2005-01/rhf/index.htm

 

[raceraj8]

I have mainly soft and LPS with a few sps frags. What is the brand of kalk that you use? Also, if my PH does rise, what is the best method of lowering it?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

Limewater is perfect for such an aquarium. I use Mississippi Lime Company Quicklime that we got in a group buy, but many brands are fine.

Aeration and slow addition of the limewater are the best ways to preclude excessive pH. There are others as well, but let's wait and see if it is an issue.