Low ALK, PH solid 8

[Reefsi]

I know there are some really brilliant people that browse this section of RC. So Its a new tank and in my basement of my home. My Alk is 2.46, Calcium 380, PH 8, and ORP 230(may have not stabilized yet). Tank was setup yesterday, but my question is what are my options if it is due to increased levels of CO2 in my home? I have a calcium reactor that I have yet to turn on because Im waiting on my apex module from BRS.

I used all RO/DI water and Red Sea Salt, which my readings are lower than advertised on the bucket. Which makes me PO'd. Im going 100% SPS so I may switch the salt.
Whats your guys educated guess on this one?

 

[nlgill13]

Alk is 2.46 meq/L? If so thats not that far off...Since the tank is new, I would wait until the end of the cycle to start checking Mag, Cal, and Alk.

Also is the salt that you used starting to harden up into clumps or one giant brick? If so then this is your problem. Not sure if Alk evaporates from the salt or what not but when the salt is in brick form Alk tends to be low.

 

[bertoni]

A pH of 8 is fine for a tank, especially indoors. I wouldn't worry. If you want to raise it, using Kalk for topoff might be one idea to consider.

 

[Reefsi]

Thanks for the input, wouldnt a Calcium reactor basically supplement a Kalk? or no?

 

[bertoni]

The calcium reactor will provide calcium and alkalinity to the tank, the same as Kalk, but Kalk tends to raise the pH, and the calcium reactor will tend to lower it. Personally, I wouldn't worry, but this article goes into Kalk in detail, if you would like to understand the chemistry:

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2005-01/rhf/index.htm

 

[Reefsi]

Thanks bertoni I appreciate the help!

 

[bertoni]

You're welcome!

 

[tmz]

I'd wait until the nitrogen cylce ,nitrification and denitrifiation are done before drawing conclusions on dosing or stable levels .

BTW, CO2 drives pH it has zero effect on total alkalinity.