I run an opposite light cycle frag, so I don't dose all my kalkwasser at night like Chris. I dose based on pH to maintain 8.3-8.34. It's similar and I do run high alk as a result. Last I tested was 11.5 on 7/30. I peaked at 12.5. I am only 6 weeks in this experiment, so early days and who knows I may crash hard.On various streams there is much excitement about ridiculous polyp extension when applying this method. And it is true in my case, the polyps on sticks were vastly enlarged, almost immediately. In my case, I don’t think was a reaction to maintaining high pH at night. I’ve maintained and exceeded that pH now using a different method and have not noticed this phenomena. Maybe it was a cry for help, rather than revelling in its newly found water parameter.
I would like to here about the coral growth explosion from folks using the Chris method, especially when their Alk has also gone through the roof.
Based on observation though, I'm happy with the results. I am seeing solid growth and encrustment. Since I switched to stabilizing pH, I have not lost an acro or any other coral. But again, it's only been 6 weeks.
I was doing AFR and kalkwasser before. I struggled to maintain a stable alk from week to week. At the same time pH was swinging from 7.8-8.1. I had quite a few losses(small acro frags) and some STN that eventually recovered. Can't say with any certainty it was a result of my swings though.
I do hope I continue to have success. This method is simple and much less stressful than maintaining a stable alkalinity. It does require frequent pH probe maintenance. It will become more complex once my dkh drops and I have to supplement my dosing. The plan is to increase evaporation and stall as much I can.
I have a post in this thread from a couple weeks ago that details more alk readings if you're interested.