Ok, let me know about my water parameters.

[ironnie7i]

I'm going to start doing my own water changes and additives since before I had a guy do all this for me. I want to make sure that my parameters are ok and if they are not how I could fix them. I just bought an API saltwater and Reef testing kit.

What are the "ideal" parameters for a reef??

My current readings are as follows:

PH - 8.0
Ammonia - 0 ppm
Nitrate - 10 ppm
Nitrite - 0 ppm
Calcium - 520 ppm (Thats kinda high)
Phosphate - 0 ppm

Im also due for a water change, will this stabilize some of my readings?

I also need to go buy a Alk and Mag test kit.

 

[Smitty]

Your readings sound very good to me...what is your salinity/salt level at? Also, no need to add additives, a 5gal per week water change is all you need to have a great reef.

 

[ironnie7i]

my salinity is at 1.026. Dont you think my nitrates and calcium are pretty high?

 

[Smitty]

Nope, sounds good to me...some ppl can't even get their nitrates under 20ppm, the lower the better, but 10 is not bad. Your cal may be just a tad bit high due to the brand of salt possibly, but it's not dangerous at all. Once you get in the habit of water changes weekly or bi-weekly, your parameters will always be good if not perfect. Good job :)

 

[ironnie7i]

thanks smitty. yea, i need to start getting into a weekely water change.