Kalk, Ca, pH, Super Buffer dKH... Which Combination???

[Area 51 Exotics]

I'm currently running a calcium reactor, and adding Kent Super Buffer dKH to my top off water to try and keep my pH up. It's currently ranging from 7.9 at night to 8.1 during the day. Should I switch to Kalk instead of the buffer? Do I need to worry about my calcium going to high if I start using Kalk along with my reactor? Also using the buffer has increased my dKH to around 14 should I be worried about that? Any input is greatly welcomed!

[inwall75]

I don't know your Calcium or Magnesium levels so it is hard for me to know exactly what to tell you. The KH of 14 is making it harder for you to keep your Ca at regular levels. The only way it isn't automatically precipitating out would be if you had excessive Magnesium levels as well. I would record those levels and put them in the thread.

Kalk dripped at night will automatically add balanced amounts of Ca and Alk along with increasing night time pH. However, this is only effective if the levels are balanced to begin with. This is a great article. http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/nov2002/chem.htm
Here's a great calculator to be properly balanced http://www.andy-hipkiss.co.uk/index..../caalkcalc.htm

[Area 51 Exotics]

My calcium has been between 440-450 for the past week, I have not tested for Magnesium. I'll see if I can find a test kit locally. According to that calculator, my Alk is not that far off based on my calcium. I'll get more info and post later.

Thanks inwall