Test Kit

[snuggles]

Hi guys, I have the Instant Ocean Reef Master Test Kit and my low-range phosphate is 0.4 to 0.6 and the high-range phosphate test is at it's lowest point 0.2 A water change was done a week ago. I'm not sure what this means??? Thanks for your help in advanced!!

[Tangster]

Phosphates are never a Yes no or black and white answer . You have to know if you are fighting organic or inorganic PO'4s and most hobby test kits do not test for the organic types just the inorganic PO4's
I try to keep mine at closes as I can to less then .003 or so and at 0.5 I'd change out my ferric oxide asap. Ph and DKH plays a role also in binding PO4 .. So much info about PO'4 all over the net just ..

[snuggles]

Originally Posted by Tangster

Phosphates are never a Yes no or black and white answer . You have to know if you are fighting organic or inorganic PO'4s and most hobby test kits do not test for the organic types just the inorganic PO4's
I try to keep mine at closes as I can to less then .003 or so and at 0.5 I'd change out my ferric oxide asap. Ph and DKH plays a role also in binding PO4 .. So much info about PO'4 all over the net just ..

I'm new to reef keeping, where do you keep ferric oxide and what does it do?
What is DKH?

My PH is at 8.2 and the alk is good. Ive been using "Purple-Up" for about one month but I have to add buffer once a week to increase PH. I just started using Kent Part-A & Part-B alternating with Purple-Up which helps keep the PH constant.

Is there any problem having calcium levels around 550?

Thanks

[reef_guru]

I'm new to reef keeping, where do you keep ferric oxide and what does it do?
What is DKH?

1) in a reactor
2) alkalinity

Is there any problem having calcium levels around 550?

should be under 500, i keep mine around 480, nsw is 420

Reef Aquarium Water Parameters by Randy Holmes-Farley - Reefkeeping.com

[snuggles]

Great info, thanks!!!!!