Balling method

[The Grizz]

So basically I should just set up my dose with bulk Ca, Mag & whatever I need to use for dKH, then on my fourth pump dose with trace elements. I already have bulk additive & can get more from CaCoReef any time. AlsoI do have plans to build a WC system that would pump directly out to my whole house RO dirty water tank that pumps directly to my section field but that will be a big project once the new tank & wall unit are built & in place.

[Myka]

Honestly, I don't think the balling method can reduce waterchanges to any significant extent. I've used semi-balling (just cal, alk, mg) for a few years now mostly using Fauna Marin salts which I prefer over the BRS bulk chems that I have tried and don't like. Anytime I try to use some of the other balling additives I run into nutrient problems and nuisance algae issues.

[The Grizz]

Still have time to research and decide. I have been supplied some info from a vendor on Ocean Fresh products that might be worth checking out as well.

[Myka]

I haven't found any of the carbon dosing in a bottle stuff to work too well for lowering nutrients, biopellets are probably the best bet there. So if you have PO4 and NO4 handled with that then you're looking at trace schtuff. Brightwell Aquatics is another I would consider looking at, and Prodibio. I really like Prodibio products - mainly the BiOptim and BioDigest (improve color even though I don't find they affect nutrients at all). The Fauna Marin Ultra Organic is a nice product but has to be used sparingly. These are affordable products that don't need daily dosing.

FWIW, try talking to your LFS about buying salt in bulk...you may be able to work a deal. Also, many suppliers have salt sales (particularly Instant Ocean and Reef Crystals) which vendors don't pass on to the customer. Ask your LFS to let you know when that sale it going on and see if s/he would cut you a deal if you buy 6 or 10 pails during the sale.

[FragIt Dan]

I would say the salt creep is responsible for the drop in salinity. As for needing a fourth channel on your doser, you should be able to combine the same components in your 3 chambers as is done with Balling, but using your own ingredients. IMO, no need for a fourth chamber. There are some additives, such as iodine or amino acids, that shouldn't be combined with anything you put in the first three chambers (I might use it for vinegar dosing). If you wanted to dose any of these 'other' supplements, channel 4 would be appropriate for this. Barring this, I would leave this channel unused and in reserve in case one of your motors or heads has an issue; you'll have a backup. Just my $0.02 .
Dan

[The Grizz]

Originally Posted by FragIt Dan

I would say the salt creep is responsible for the drop in salinity. As for needing a fourth channel on your doser, you should be able to combine the same components in your 3 chambers as is done with Balling, but using your own ingredients. IMO, no need for a fourth chamber. There are some additives, such as iodine or amino acids, that shouldn't be combined with anything you put in the first three chambers (I might use it for vinegar dosing). If you wanted to dose any of these 'other' supplements, channel 4 would be appropriate for this. Barring this, I would leave this channel unused and in reserve in case one of your motors or heads has an issue; you'll have a backup. Just my $0.02 .
Dan

That is a good thought Dan, I plan to buy a few replacement pump just to have on hand as well.