salifert alkalinity question

[scottv1025]

anybody using this test kit

 

[TomD]

Was, honestly was the only Sailfert kit I do not like. I use Sailfert for all the rest and TM for ALK.

I matched TM up with a few other tests and it was accurate enough and takes 2 seconds to do.

Could not be easier and I test my ALK more than anything.

 

[Liam]

i use it,very happy with it

 

[scottv1025]

how do i read it

 

[scottv1025]

i got .56 right when it turned pink is that good . how do i convert it

 

[TomD]

When the color changes, flip it upside down and wherever the top part of the black rubber is, is the reading--refer to the chart.

 

[Liam]

Tom's description is spot on.
.56 equates to 7DKH which NSW level.

 

[scottv1025]

2.63 in meq/l how do i covert that

 

[scottv1025]

oh i see use dkh
so i need it to be 9 - 11
is 7dkh really bad

 

[Liam]

oh i see use dkh
so i need it to be 9 - 11
is 7dkh really bad

no ,7 is very good.
Most folks tend to run a little higher in an effort to improve calcification,ie speed up coral growth that is why 9- 11 is normally recommended.
7 however is what natural seawater would test at.
I have always run in the 9-11 range but now i am trying lower levels closer to NSW

 

[nichols]

7dkh of natural saltwater. I keep mine at 10dkh or a little above.

 

[jorge baptista]

but wouldent raising alk that high affect the calcium buffering

 

[Liam]

but wouldent raising alk that high affect the calcium buffering

providing calcium is within normal levels it won't be a problem.
However If for example you had a calcium level over 500 you may have a problem with such high alk.

 

[jorge baptista]

because i'm having opposite problem high alk lower calc

 

[nichols]

because i'm having opposite problem high alk lower calc

Check your Mag levels. Should be about 1350 or so. If your mag level is low it hard to balabce ca and alk.

 

[jorge baptista]

i'll check that thanks