calcium running low

[lrasser]

I'm currently running a 125g mixed reef tank. I've been doing reefs for over a decade but never got into sps until now. I'm looking for a little assistance in the process of keep up my cal level. Currently my alk stays between 8-9 but my cal keeps dropping down to around 380. If i do a decent size water change it goes up to around 400-420 but drops back down in about a week. I've added about a dozen sps frags over the past few months and it seems there starting to setttle in and use my cal. Ive been reading up on reactors, dosers etc and my head is about to spin. I'm looking for the most stable and consistant way to maintain my proper cal level and any advice would be greatly appreciated. I would rather do this right the first time!

 

[Dogbed]

Kalk in your ATO test daily until you pin point how much cal is being used in one day and adjust accordingly.

 

[Marek-S]

If U trying to get into sps you'll need to dose calk and alk in the same amount regurally , to do so best way is either dosing pumps or calcium reactor

 

[lrasser]

ive tried reading up on calcium reacctors. Seems like the most stable way to go but the info out there seems really confusing. I'm sure the concept is pretty easy but everyone seems to try and make it rocket science. How long do the CO2 tanks last? how long does the media last?

 

[lrasser]

would a dosing pump work just as well using the 3 basics. alk, mag, cal?

 

[lrasser]

should mag be dosed as well to keep them all in line? I guess my big question is whether the reactor is worth the extra money. Does the benefit out weight the price.

 

[vio]

How about Magnesium level ? You have to keep it around 1300 ppm.Also check for Potassium level (around 400)

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-07/rhf/

 

[lrasser]

Mag is 1260. Just checked it today. Haven't cracked potassium

 

[lrasser]

Thanks for the info. Are any a&b dosing parts better? is there a preference around here?

 

[Marek-S]

there is bunch of ready mixes out there , but I think the cheapest way is to mix your own - you can get everything from BRS
http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/brs-2-part-calcium-alkalinity-total-package-bulk-1.html

 

[B.BASH]

One of the best pieces of equipment I purchased was a calcium reactor with a controller once you dial it in it works great