Kdh issue in water changes

[Thatreefguy88]

For some time now, I have had issues with my kdh levels being high in my water changes. I use a 12 gallon plastic storage container to mix my water changes. I have found that if I use my kdh buffer in that container, the kdh levels are much higher then needed once mixed. I use 1/8 tsp of buffer per gallon of fresh water to bring the dkh to 9.0-10.0. If I put 1/8 tsp of buffer in a 1 gallon bottle of fresh water, it will be right on the dot. If I add 1/8 tsp of buffer per gallon in a 4 gallon water change in my mixing container, the kdh will be well over 13.0, without fail. Anyone had this issue, or perhaps I am overlooking something obvious?

 

[Jekyl]

Using 0 tds RoDi water to start with? What salt are you using? Why the buffer in the first place?

 

[Thatreefguy88]

Using 0 tds RoDi water to start with? What salt are you using? Why the buffer in the first place?

Yes, RoDi water, instant ocean reef crystals, and I have to use a buffer or Kdh will be far to low.

 

[Jekyl]

I'm assuming you mean Dkh as in alkalinity? Maybe I'm wrong here though. Reef crystals itself mixes to I think around 11 or 12 doesn't it? Adding a buffer will make that even higher.

 

[nashvillian]

I’m pretty sure IORC is one of the highest alk salt mixes you can get. Are you mixing to weight? Need to measure g/L

 

[Thatreefguy88]

I'm assuming you mean Dkh as in alkalinity? Maybe I'm wrong here though. Reef crystals itself mixes to I think around 11 or 12 doesn't it? Adding a buffer will make that even higher.

Yes, dKh, I just realized I did that. Lol.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

What do you measure the alkalinity to be in fresh salt water, and how are you measuring it?

 

[Thatreefguy88]

I didn't realize that my salt mix was already that high. That's the issue. Like I said, something obvious. Lol. Thank you.

 

[Thatreefguy88]

What do you measure the alkalinity to be in fresh salt water, and how are you measuring it?

Hanna alkalinity test kit