Calcium level problem

[Chuck239]

I am having a terrible time getting my calcium levels up. Is there something I'm missing? Is there a better way to raise my calcium levels?

My PH is 8.2, my KDH is 8, my phosphates and nitrates are at or near 0 and I can't get my calcium over 320.

I tried adding liquid calcium everyday, my calcium came up 20 or 30 points but my PH plummeted.
I tried a liquid reef builder supplement but that had no affect.
Now I am putting kalwasser in my top off water, we'll see if that does anything but I am getting discouraged.

Any tips would be appreciated.

 

[MisFit]

check your magnesium level its probably too low. Read this article and pay attention to the section on Effect of Magnesium on calcium/alkalinity balance.

http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/oct2003/chem.htm

 

[s_kelley]

What is your alk level? Are you using a two part or something else?

 

[jtma508]

+1 for MisFit's comment. Many reefers think of Mg as a separate, unrelated component. As that article points out it's part of the holy trinity of reef chemsitry.

 

[afboundguy]

Agreed Mag is most likely the problem... If it's not in check it's almost futile to keep calcium on par...

 

[gobie1313]

+1 on afbounds comment. If you dont add any Mg you will never get your Ca up.

 

[ReeferMedic]

Alk level is fine. Agreed on the mg level, it's most likely going to be low.

 

[Chuck239]

Thanks for the advice! I tested my Mg levels last night and they were around 800. I will start dosing Mg tonight.