mag level high

Discussion in 'General Reef Topics' started by mikeb, Nov 9, 2004.

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  1. mikeb

    mikeb Flamingo Tongue

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    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Posted same question in "chemistry", I'll try it here now.

    I had a problem a while back with my calcium and alk. My calcium, even though I don't add any, was always reading real high and I couldn't keep my alk up. I was given the advice of checking my magnesium.
    So now I got the Salifert test kit and my mag level is at about 2500. Is this too high? And can a high level of mag have caused my problem? I thought I would be looking for a low level.
    Also, I don't add any supplements except for occasionally upping my alk.
     
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  3. Birdlady

    Birdlady Finback Whale

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    How'd you get a reading that high? Hmmmm.... I'd have to check but I don't think the Salifert chart goes that high. Did you have to fill the syringe up more than once?

    All the readings on the syringe with the exception of a full syringe, is a "point something" eg .04

    What was your syringe reading"
     
  4. mikeb

    mikeb Flamingo Tongue

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    Yes, you have to fill the syringe twice. Then just add the readings according to the formula.
     
  5. Birdlady

    Birdlady Finback Whale

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    Well, that is really high....I am going to have to defer to another with more "skills" than me!

    I will assume you did the test more than once just to be sure.

    Are you using RO/DI water? If not, perhaps your water supply is coming in high?
     
  6. mikeb

    mikeb Flamingo Tongue

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    Hey, thanks anyway birdlady. BTW I am using RO/DI water. Also, if this helps, I'm using Coralife salt.
     
  7. mikeb

    mikeb Flamingo Tongue

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    Just an update. I just tested a new batch of salt water (Coralife) and got a reading of 3000! I guess that's the problem since the water I'm starting with has a ppm of only 4. So now I ask do I change brands? Is a mag level of 3000 too high?
     
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  9. mikeb

    mikeb Flamingo Tongue

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    I also tested the calcium and that was at 700.