Dosing 2-Part: Can I Dose CA First?

[rssjsb]

I know the directions on the package say to dose the alk part first, then the calcium part. What I'm wondering is if it really matters which goes first as long as you're not just mixing them by pouring them in at the same time.

My reason for asking is this: I've read that the alkalinity solution should ideally be added very slowly to avoid a ph spike. So, I've rigged something up to drip the alk part (giant syringe sold to fill printer ink cartridges, w/a check valve mounted on the tip, all clipped to the side of my fuge/sump). I can measure what I need and drip it as slowly as I want.

Unfortunately, if I have to wait to add the calcium, it means a long wait. This is inconvenient in the mornings when I've got to get out the door. Also, a couple of times, I've wandered off and forgotten to add the calcium at all.

Could I add the calcium first? Or have I invented a problem where none really exists?

[bertoni]

I don't think the order matters. Dripping the alkalinity is fine, but I just add mine in one shot. I do use the unbaked baking soda version, which doesn't affect pH much.

[rssjsb]

thanks, jonathon - yeah i'm still using the store-bought stuff.

[bertoni]

The commercial products might be higher pH. Better safe than sorry.

[Mike O'Brien]

I dose it all at once as well. IMO if you're not dosing large amounts, that's fine. How much are you adding to how much water ?

I dose the alkalinity part at noon, right before my lights go on. The Calcium, I dose later on in the evening. I also feed at those times. Doing something like that may make it easir to remember for you.