Kalkwasser

[junyong84]

What is the use of kalkwasser? Does it provide calcium to the water? Then, whats the diff between liquid calcium/powder calcium???

Can we use kalkwasser to replace lost saltwater thru skimming? Will it change the salanity of the water????

[Tanzy]

Kalkwasser is German for Chalk Water. It refers to calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2]solution. The saturated solution is often dripped into tanks as calcium and alkalinity supplement. It replenishes calcium and alkalinity in a balanced 1:1 ratio.

Liquid calcium supplements are often calcium chloride, calcium gluconate or calcium acetate solutions. They add calcium to the tank but will not raise the alkalinity. The 3 mentioned chemicals are also available in dry powder forms.

Kalkwasser is made by dissolving calcium hydroxide powder in freshwater. It is used to replenish water loss to evaporation but not to skimming. Water removed by the skimmer is saltwater and must be replaced with saltwater.

If a similar volume of kalkwasser is dripped into the tank as the volume lost to evaporation, the salinity shouldn't be affected.

[junyong84]

it other words... kalkwasser is generally better than liquid calcium/powder calcium.. as it serves two purposes???

[Tanzy]

I won't say it is better. Each has it's use. Kalkwasser can't be added fast as it will cause a pH rise but it does have a benefit of precipitating phosphate from the water.

Calcium and alkalinity supplements are available in Two Part additives which if the same volume is added will also give a balanced increase. Calcium acetate is a balanced supplement too.

When it is required to raise calcium or alkalinity separately, these individual additives must be used instead of kalkwasser.

[junyong84]

got it!