Tank cycle question

Okay I retested the tank.....twice. I am thinking there was some user error on the first test. Cal levels are 580. I got the same result both times. That is still too high right? Also when should I turn on my protein skimmer?

 

You can turn on the skimmer now, it is fine. And try testing your water source, rarely the ca levels is elevated but it does happen. A calcium of 580 will not harm anything. Try to get a alk and magnesium level and then you can decide a plan of correction.

 

I have borat, mag, and alk test kits as well. I havent used them yet but the directions almost look like Chinese!

 

Ryland, by chance have you added any rock? I've heard, in rare cases, of friends that have had calcium levels skyrocket with the addition of dry rock to their aquarium, leeching out from the rock. They later even admitted they hadn't really rinsed the rock off prior to putting it in their tank...


You also stated you use Reef Crystals, if it is the one made by Instant Ocean I have noticed that my particular mix is actually a bit low on the calcium added... Have you been dosing any calcium in addition to adding the reef crystal salt? That may be an issue as well.


I'm in agreement with the other posters here though if none of the above apply, you may have a bad test kit, or you may have a touch of user error on the calcium test (I know I had a good deal of it on my first few!)


You may want to add some RODI water in too as a previous poster suggested to help get those levels in line and your skimmer may take it out as well.


But welcome and I hope you get this solved soon!