very high alk reading

I just set up my 24gal nano on the weekend to start cycling and did some testing other than just the basics for cycling for my own curiosity. Started out with a really low pH, but once water was circulating for awhile it has since come up. I would like it a bit higher but we'll see how it goes while testing during the cycle. Just would like someone to chime in on some ideas as to why my dkh is so bloody high and long term affects of it staying that way once I get to the point of being able to add some fish/corals etc. Here are some of my readings so far

Sat
pH 7.4
sg 1.025

Sunday
ph 8
amm 0ppm
nitrite 0ppm
nitrate 0ppm
sg 1.025
dkh 18
calcium 520
mag-need to get a new kit

Mon

pH 8
amm 0-.25pm
nitrite 0ppm
nitrate 0ppm
sg 1.025
dkh-20
calcium 500

Thanks

 

what kind of salt are you using and how long ago did you buy it ?

have you been doseing anything ?

 

And what test kit are you using?

 

pH of 8 is fine as long as it stays relatively stable there.

Keep your water well aerated and your hose when possible since the CO2 level in the house will affect your pH.

 

using instant ocean, just purchased a bag of it a couple weeks ago, not dosing anything. Alk test kit is Nutrafin and the others are API.

 

I always had a high Ca reading when using API when compared to salifert.I have no exsperience with Nutrafin test kits,maybe you could get your LFS to test your alk with another kit for comparison.

 

yes, get a second opinion on that alk...with IO, it shouldn't be that high if you're not dosing anything....

 

I may just order a new test kit for the alk. My kit is starting to get a little low anyways. I wish I could just pop into a LFS but thats an hour and half drive for me! I agree something doesn't seem right but we will when I get my new test kit. Thanks again