Help with ALK please!!

So i've read a bit, but still am not sure the best next step with this.

I just started up a new system - total volume is about 100 gal. I use Oceanic salt, made it up to sPG 1.025. The tank has been cycling for 12 days. I haven't done any water changes, and just started skimmer today (on day 12).

the tank has about 90 lbs caribsea sand and 90 lbs "nuked" rock and 15 lbs new live rock.

pH is steady at 8.3. dkH has dropped from 9.15 at first to 7 to 6.4 today. Ca started at 535, then 585, now 590 today.

nh3 is 0.25, no2 is 0.25 and no3 is 5ppm today.

question is this - What should I do about the alkalinity. I'd like to set up a nice stable system that is durable. I've got b-ionic 2 part buffer still around from my last setup, but i don't think i should use it b/c the calcium is high. I guess I should add bicarb. Any idea why the bicarb is falling - are substrates "equalizing" with the SW?

thanks

 

seems reasonable, when calcium goes up dkh goes down and vice versa. Just get some buffer

 

So early in the cycle I wouldn't worry about it. Yes you need to get it up but during the cycle things are going to be so unstable it might prove to be a waste of $$ to chase your ALK and CA around. Wait until the cycle has finished and you've done your first water change

J

 

word!! 2part solution, im a fan of dosing as opposed to running a reactor personally

 

That was where I was going with this question - couldn't say it right. Thanks.

As for the two part rec's - would you really use that when Ca is so high?

 

I agree with J. Let it cycle then test.. then look at ESV or the like.

edit - if your calcium is still high at that point then just use the alk solution - be careful - I've found the ESV alk to be very strong. Follow instructions.

 

I don't have much to add ... just to re-emphazise what other members said... let your tank cycle for long enough (I cycled mine for just over 2 months) and measure again. Only then you can decide what to do. And don't hesitate to ask.... there are a lot of very experienced people on this forum who are willing to help!!!

 

All good advice, especially bulkreefsupply for cheap basic additives, they also have all of the calculators and instructions for using them. It's worth actually reading all of their articles and watching all their videos as well, it's very informative.

Right now don't worry, relax and let things run their course, about the only thing wrong you can do now is to start stocking. IMO of course.

 

I am with you 100%!!!!!

 

thanks guys!