lowering ALK

[scbasser5]

Other than time, is there a safe way to lower the Alk in a tank with out disrupting other important levels?

 

[mbbuna]

how high is it?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

Water changes help if it is very high. Adding a mineral acid (like hydrochloric acid/muriatic acid) will drop it as fast as you want, but also lowers pH and is easy to overshoot.

 

[scbasser5]

Well thats one of those things Randy has addressed before the different terms or scales for ALK.

I use the Hagen test kit and it reads in PPM. Per their data should be 105 to 125. I am getting 140-150 was 180 till I turned off the CA reactor over the weekend.

I changed 30 gallons on my 150 tank last night so I will see how that helps tonight when I check.

Some one told me putting soda water in there would help.

Thanks

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

I recommend 125-200 ppm calcium carbonate equivalents for alkalinity, so there is no need to drop it.

 

[scbasser5]

You sold me again, Thank you.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

You're welcome.

Happy reefing.

 

[scbasser5]

Well the main reason I was trying to get it down was cause I had been told that high alk would prevent my getting the CA up to 400.

Like so many things in the reef and life, everyone has an opinion.

By the way, my wife asked how come you do this? Answer everyones questions. I know it must take a lot of your personal time.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

Well, your current level won't make it unusually hard to maintain calcium.

I know it must take a lot of your personal time.

It does take a large amount of time.

About the only reason that I can give is that I like to do so .

 

[scbasser5]

Well from what I have read and see, your help is greatly appreciated by a hell of lot of people. I would like to say thank you for myself and the many other people I am sure you have helped.

THANK YOU!

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

You're very welcome.