Ca+2 Reactor Poll

[reefkeep1]

I've recently started dripping turbo calcium into my sump in order to try to raise my Ca+2 levels. This is based on an article I noted on this site. My alkalinity holds steady at around 4 meq/l, pH=8.2, temp = 78, but Ca+2 seems to fluctuate between 300 - 375 ppm. Last I checked my magnesium was ~1250.

The poll is should I discontinue my Ca+2 reactor until I can get steady Ca+2 levels by adding supplements? I'm wondering if CO2 is an issue here. I have a Korallin reactor but it seems as though air (or CO2?) is coming from the effluent tubing. The drip rate is ~10-20 drops/min. The reactor is the only other variable I have not yet controlled. I've discontinued other supplements aside from turbo calcium but continue to wait to see Ca+2 levels increase.

RK1

 

[Len]

I assume your Ca reactor is dialed in correctly and the effluent pH is about 6.7. If so, I am surprised your Ca levels are coming up and doubt its use is impeding Ca levels.

I'm not a fan of turbo calcium (calcium chloride). I suggest you drip kalkwasser (calcium hydroxide) instead. Both will bring up your Ca levels, but kalkwasser is a more complete system to raise and maintain Ca and alk. When I've used CaCl in the past, the calcium levels will rise right after use but quickly fall in a short period of time.