High Calcium and Low Alk Problem

[jle2003]

I have just measure the Ca and Alk using salifer test kit. I found that the CA level was > 500 and Alk was 7.4/2.63. How do I bring Ca level below 500 and increase Alk level to 11? Also, with the current measurement, will it harm the corals in my tank? I am dosing Liquid Reactor from Kent everyday and Reef Solution from Ecosystem aquarium once a week. Water changed was done last night. Thank you in advance.

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

I'd get a real value for the calcium. Just keep adding more titrant until you get a value.

As to reducing it, just maintaining alkalinity (with baking soda, for example) and letting the calcium come down on its own would be the best way. Are you using Oceanic salt? It has excessive calcium, and is how many folks get into that situation. It you maintain appropriate alkalinity, which can be hard to do with elevated calcium, high clacium is not otherwise a concern.

This article will help you make the correction:

Solving Calcium and Alkalinity Problems
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/nov2002/chem.htm

I'd skip that Liquid Reactor as I think it is not a very useful additive. I review such products here:

Calcium Carbonate as a Supplement (Aragamight; Liquid Reactor)
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/july2002/chem.htm

I don't know what Reef Solution is.

[jle2003]

So, if I keep changing water more often, will it help to low down the Ca level? Also, beside using baking soda, what else can I use to maintain the Alk level?

I am not using Oceanic salt. If I stop using Liquid Reactor, what supplements would you recommend to use for my tank in order get the rocks more purple and the corals are healthy? Thanks

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

So, if I keep changing water more often, will it help to low down the Ca level?

Yes, if it is not already high in your salt mix. It isn't necessary to do water changes, but one can bring calcium down that way.

There are a variety of ways to maintain alkalinity, include many commercial buffers. They are not necessarily better than baking soda, however.

I'd suggest a good balanced calcium and alkalinity additive system. This article explains the choices:

How to Select a Calcium and Alkalinity Supplementation Scheme
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/feb2003/chem.htm