Epsoms salts ok?

is it ok to use lowes salts for my Mg levels and i am reading Randys paper on how to mix and does the tank, also regular Arm & Hammer baking soda ok for Alk? thanks for the help all

 

If you are wanting to boost magnesium on a regular basis, epsom salts is not the preferred way to go as the ionic balance is upset.
In his improved formula for calcium and alkalinity and magnesium, Randy recommends use of magnesium chloride hexahydrate along with epsom salts, but it is heavy on the mag chlor hex side to keep the ionic balance better.
Craig Bingman recommends using both salts also, but in a slightly different ratio.
He suggests using 10 dry volumes of magnesium chloride hexahydrate with 1 dry volume of epsom salts. Dilute to what suits your needs best. (determine by testing the mag levels)
Lowes epsom will be fine. I use Walmart's.
Arm and Hammer works just fine for Alk although I personally bake mine first.

 

Forgot to post link to his improved formula.
An Improved Do-it-Yourself Two-Part Calcium and Alkalinity Supplement System by Randy Holmes-Farley - Reefkeeping.com

 

Like ray said it's not the preferred method. It will be ok to use though as long as you do occasional water changes. Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate and over time sulfate levels can build up to unwanted levels. It is mitigated with water changes.
I like magnesium chloride flakes from bulkreefsupply.com
It's really cheap too.. but epsom will do the job cheaper.

 

thanks guys i will research more, everything is different than it was 12 years ago?

 

I use a ratio of epsom salts to magnesium chloride. I haven't seen any ill effects so far, but my tank is fairly large and new. I use 3 parts epsom salts, 2 part MgCl.

Hope that helps.

 

I use nothing but epsom salt. I think Bogie does too. I know a lot of people that use it regularly with no ill effects. I talked with Tangster about this once and he says he has dosed epsom for years in the same tank, testing for sulfate frequently, and has never seen a buildup. Ever. And I trust him. He said he didn't know why but results are results. I buy a 4lb. bag once a year for $4 then I'm done. Go with the epsom, you will be just fine!!

 

thanks guys. how much would you put in a 72 bow (about 90 gallons total) to raise my Mg 100ppm im at 1400 now or would you not even mess with it yet?

 

There's a calculator on this website that will tell you how much to put in. Then click the additives tab.

 

Curious.......what is your purpose of going over 1400? You are fine now.