API test for dKH

[shromy]

anyone willing to send me a copy of the directions for the test, droped my booklet in the tank, pages are stuck together and is destroying it when i try to pull apart. any help would be greatly appreiated.

 

[tim8111]

Fill a vial with 5 ml of test water. Add 1 drop of the solution. Stir or shake the water. Water will turn blue. Add 1 drop at a time and shake between drops. When the water turns yellow, count the number of drops and that is your dKH.

Thanks,
Tim

 

[shromy]

Thank you Tim, i was thinking that about what is was. Well now i guess i have an excuse to come spend some money with you(when i print some more lol), to thank you in person, that and all the wonderful things i've heard about your store.
Steve

 

[shromy]

also what would you recommend to raise it if needed a more natural what(i try not to add chemicals unless i have to).

 

[shromy]

and yes barb its the same thing but Tim beat ya to it, Thank you though.
Steve

 

[derek_s]

Well...... AS far as I know there is no really 'natural' way to raise it other than good components of an established system. i.e good substrate, etc.

A buffer of some sort is very commonly used and safe for an aquarium. I wouldnt hesitate to use one if needed to keep parameters in check.

 

[shromy]

if i remember correctly its to be around 8-12 im testing at 7, so its probley where it needs to be with the test being a bit off cause of normal reasons.

 

[shromy]

Thanks for the info Chris, i wasnt sure since i havent ever had a problem with it in this tank.

 

[tim8111]

shromy;228217 wrote: also what would you recommend to raise it if needed a more natural what(i try not to add chemicals unless i have to).

Aragonite Sand will help stabilize the buffering capacity of the water. However small doses of:

Soda Ash(Baked Baking Soda) - raises pH and ALK
Sodium Bicarbonate(Baking Soda) - Lowers pH and raises ALK

I use these in my systems along with Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Sulfate & Chloride. These are all the chemicals I add on a regular basis.

Every once and a while I will dose Iodine.

Thanks,
Tim

 

[shromy]

I have read alot about making the baked soda ash, but how much would you add to a gallon of rodi water. most info i find is in ltr not gallons. sorry im to lazy to do the math, if im to lazy for ya im sorry just figured id ask.

 

[tim8111]

shromy;228249 wrote: I have read alot about making the baked soda ash, but how much would you add to a gallon of rodi water. most info i find is in ltr not gallons. sorry im to lazy to do the math, if im to lazy for ya im sorry just figured id ask.

I would just purchase Soda Ash instead of Baking it myself. I am to lazy for that. Well, not lazy as much as I don't have freaking time!

From Bulk Reef Supplies' web site:

Alkalinity
<ol>
<li>Fill one of the gallon jugs ¾ to 4/5th with RO/DI water. This will make shaking and dissolving the solution much easier.</li>
<li>Measure out two level cups of "Soda Ash." Add 1/2 to the jug, cap and shake vigorously.</li>
<li>Repeat "Step 2" with the remaining Soda Ash.</li>
<li>Fill the remainder of the jug with water, cap and label "Alkalinity."</li>
</ol>Thanks,
Tim

 

[shromy]

thank you every much tim, you have been very helpful. wish i didnt live so far away from you guys so i could come out more. i live right next to SWC, Sal and Dave have been great people to deal with. but i will make it to yours someday soon i promise, i always make a trip to the LFS when im in that area. I just keep hearing to many good things about you guys.

 

[reefkeeper]

Here's a link that has API color charts and instructions. Go to the bottom of the page on this link and you'll see dkh and all others. Good Luck!!