low alk

[mattmaddox573]

When testing for alkinlinity im getting a reading of 5 dkh. I read an article that led me to believe not having a protien skimmer or not do water changes coud cause this. I have a 70 gal display with 30 sump. My calcium reads at 440. my ph 8.0-8.3. I havent had a functioniung skimmer in quite some time. Ive been doing roughly a 4 gal water change weekly during this time. Should i up the amount i change? Any ideas for alk drop?

 

[data_loss]

I'd start by dosing to bring the alkalinity up to be in balance with the calcium levels. From there you can monitor if it drops quickly again. I just did this in one of my tanks. I mixed a teaspoon of baking soda in with my topoff water till my alk was up over 10. I wouldn't try to change it too quickly and watch your pH during the process.