Instant Ocean Test

[alexwolf]

Mixed up a fresh batch at the store yesterday, and GaryP and I tested it.

CA 400ppm
Alk 12DKH
didnt have a MG kit

Dissolved in 2 min.

I really like it. Just thought it was worth sharing :)

[Reef69]

Im going to start using IO, since my Ca. is at 560 and I think oceanic is not letting it climb down...

[alexwolf]

i find its cheaper to add calcium than buffer. Buffer wears out so fast. Only real drawback to me is that its 160g vs 200g per bucket at the same price.

[JeffCo]

I use it too, with great success!

[cbianco]

I use IO in my aquarium and have no problems with algae growth (see phosphates, etc) and my ph is always right on point. I like it and will continue to use it.

Christopher

[z28pwr]

i find its cheaper to add calcium than buffer. Buffer wears out so fast. Only real drawback to me is that its 160g vs 200g per bucket at the same price.

You don't use the 200 gallon LFS bags?

[alexwolf]

Sometimes. I like to get the buckets to use afterwards. :)

[GaryP]

i find its cheaper to add calcium than buffer. Buffer wears out so fast. Only real drawback to me is that its 160g vs 200g per bucket at the same price.

Actually, if you buy them in bulk like I do, they are about the same price.

[alexwolf]

how bulk do you buy gary?

[GaryP]

CaCl2 - 50 lb. bag

Buffer - However much I want to make up. I can get the baking soda in 10 lb. bags. I think the washing soda comes in 3-4 lb. boxes.

[alexwolf]

oh, i though you were tlaking about the salt. I know about your buffer :P

[GaryP]

I never have a problem finding it at HEB. Maybe its like pickling lime, you just have to go to the right one.

[akm]

My calcium is at something like 580 and i've been using oceanic and it doesnt seem to go down much. I think I might try getting some IO soon.

[GaryP]

Joshua,

I get it at the HEB at I-10 and Wurzbach. Its in the clothes washing product aisle. I need to get some. Want me to pick you some up?

[OldSalty]

I got some by mistake at HEB in the isle where the washing powder is. it's arm & hammer super washing soda. boy was the wife mad when i brought that home :cry sent me rite back to get the correct stuff.

[StephenA]

My calcium is at something like 580 and i've been using oceanic and it doesnt seem to go down much. I think I might try getting some IO soon.

What's your dhk? Do you ever add buffer?

[dow]

... when I asked the employees they look at me like I'm nuts.

Yeah, I get the same look when I ask for pickling lime. A lot of them don't have any idea at all what I'm talking about. The rest seem to always want to sell me pickling salt.

Gary -

You mentioned that you're buying CaCl2 in 50# bags. Are you using that for a Ca reactor, or to make up kalkwasser?

Also, what do you think of this article (http://www.reefscapes.net/articles/breefcase/kalkwasser.html)? In it the writer talks about adding vinegar to your kalkwasser water.

[Thunderkat]

I used to always use IO before switching to Oceanic. I might go back after this bucket of Oceanic is done, but I doubt it.

Gary, I can never find the washing soda at the grocery store. I always end up baking the baking soda in the oven. :roll

If you use washing soda you don't have to bake it in the oven like you do with baking soda?