kalk Q's

Myka · #1 10-09-2009, 01:35 PM

I find Kalk a pain in the butt because the tank always seems to vary the amount it is getting topped up. You can just add the kalk to the RO in your ATO. I think I had started on the careful side with 1/2 tsp per gallon. Try something like that, and test daily until you figure out where to keep it. It's a pain in the butt to dial in.

banditpowdercoat · #2 10-09-2009, 03:21 PM

If it's a pain, why do so many do it??

Oh, and it's only Calcium that it suppliments?? I'll still have to add MG won't I?

Im just sarting with some SPS now and not sure what's the best way?

Gizmo · #3 10-09-2009, 04:04 PM

I run both a Kalk Reactor and a Calcium Reactor. It keeps the Calcium levels high, alkalinity balanced and the PH controlled (because Kalk and Calcium effluent has opposite effects on PH) I find this the best way to control the Ph while keeping Calcium levels up for SPS and other calcium rich life (clams etc). I'm using Precision Marine gear for both. Oh, and if you like the "set and forget" stuff, this is a great way to go. I just add some Kalk powder every 2 to 3 weeks.

untamed · #4 10-09-2009, 07:26 PM

I also run both Kalk (in a reactor) and a Ca Reactor. Unlike many, I don't supply Kalk all the time in my top-off water. In my case, Kalk is pumped in only at night using a peristaltic pump. This helps stabilize the pH drop at night and also allows me to control exactly how much Kalk gets added as it is not related to evaporation (which changes).

I have to add additional Kalk powder to my Kalk reactor every 10-14 days even though there is a significant amount of undissolved stuff on the bottom of the reactor. Expect this, because it is normal.