Raising Alkalinity: Sourcing Bulk Sodium Bicarbonate

[Mako Shark II]

Reef Tank. Pool. Whatever... It’s all the same chemistry. (I just need something hefty for 28,000 gallons!)

Granted, we want to use Lab-quality “stuff” to raise ALK in a reef system, but then again, we’re supporting precious life. The pool on the other hand, is quite the opposite: Kill everything that moves!
:deadhorse:

The question therefore is: Where can I find a source to buy Bulk (5-10 gallon pails) Sodium Bicarbonate? The local retail Pool stores have onerous pricing and a bucket of Alkalinity Up can run >$80. for a 50# pail.

Any body have a bright ideas?

Neuroslicer, are you out there son?

 

[neuroslicer]

For DIY two part reef dosing, I've been using lab grade magnesium chloride and calcium chloride, but the stuff I'm using for alkalinity is the easy to get food grade sodium bicarb from Arm and Hammer at the local Kroger's. But I bake it in the oven to drive off the water molecules, producing sodium carbonate (aka washing sode or soda ash) to get more of it into solution.

If you're interested in getting bulk bicarb (aka "alkalinity up") for your pool there are plenty of pool supply companies online. Here's one, but google "discount pool chemicals" for more choices:


http://www.doheny.com/poolsupplies/Alkalinity-Up.html

They've got a 5 pound bucket for $18.99 and a 25 pound bucket for $39.99.

Here's an ebay seller offering a 50 lb bag of A&H sodium bicarb for $15, but shipping is another $35.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/SODIUM-BICA...aultDomain_0&hash=item1e697eca26#ht_500wt_950

 

[keaton]

Sam's Club: Arm & Hammer® Baking Soda - 13.5 lb. bag Item #: 55652 $5.98

It's what I buy...

 

[neuroslicer]

that's a deal!

 

[Mako Shark II]

Keaton, that IS a deal!!!

Jay, not so much. Like I said, I've already got 50# at $80 at Leslie's.