can this be right?

[concon]

I just tested my water and this is what I get: PH 8.3, CA 420, Nitrites 0, Nitrates OFF THE CHART, KA OFF THE CHART!!! HELP.

 

[Anonymous]

How high does the KA chart go? That doesn't seem likely with that PH and Calcium level.

Nitrates don't just go away on their own, they need to be consumed and/or removed. If you have no provision for removing them, like water changes, then they will continue to build up.

 

[Anonymous]

What Guy said.

 

[concon]

The chart goes dkh 1-12 , I am at a 12 and ppm, I am 200 ppm!

 

[Anonymous]

How old are the test kits, and are your sure you've followed the directions? I once got the directions for two different tests mixed up and scared my self to death.

 

[Anonymous]

12dKH is possible, almost normal. I wouldn't worry about it but stop adding buffer if you are.

200ppm nitrate isn't impossible, but not likely. Mix up some fresh saltwater using pure water and a good salt mix and test for Nitrate to validate your test kit.

 

[concon]

Guy, My nitrates are at about 120. The funny thig is I did a 20% water change this morning and it didnt even phase either the nitrate or KH readings! What is ideal KH for a reef tank? I had aways had around 6 or 100 ppm.

 

[Anonymous]

In my opinion it depends on your Calcium level.

For 420ppm Ca I'd suggest 3.0 - 3.5 Meq/L = 8.5 - 10.0 dKH = 150 - 175ppm

Being a little higher or lower doesn't matter.

 

[concon]

I am going to take some water to the LFS and see if they come up with the same nitrate level I do. Maybe it is my kit. Thanks!!!!