How to stabilize coral tank parameters

[rivetax]

My tank's been all over the place lately, params keep swinging. Got a 40-gallon with Zoanthids, a couple Acros, and a Torch. Running a Reef Octopus skimmer, dosing two-part but still getting alk swings. What's the move to keep things steady?

[burrow]

First, how often are you testing? Alk swings can happen if you're not testing daily when dosing. Also, check your magnesium levels, they should be around 1350 ppm to stabilize alk and calcium. What's your current salt mix?

[Tealux]

My tank's been all over the place lately, params keep swinging. Got a 40-gallon with Zoanthids, a couple Acros, and a Torch. Running a Reef Octopus skimmer, dosing two-part but still getting alk swings. What's the move to keep things steady?

Are you using a dosing pump or manual dosing? Consistency is key with two-part. Also, what's your water change schedule like?

[flair9]

I had the same issue until I switched to a calcium reactor. It's pricey but worth it if you're serious about stability. Also, make sure your salinity isn't drifting. ATO with a good quality salt mix helps a ton.

[Ideal]

What's your lighting schedule? Too much light can stress corals and mess with your params indirectly. I run my Radions for 8 hours max, with a gradual ramp up and down.

[Savira]

First, how often are you testing? Alk swings can happen if you're not testing daily when dosing. Also, check your magnesium levels, they should be around 1350 ppm to stabilize alk and calcium. What's your current salt mix?

Agreed on the magnesium. I'd also suggest checking your dosing pumps for consistency. Sometimes they can get clogged or drift over time.

[airtys]

My tank was a mess until I started using a controller. Now I get alerts if anything's off. Maybe look into a Neptune or GHL system if you're serious about stability.

[raynigma]

How old is your tank? Newer systems tend to swing more. It might just need time to mature. Also, are you using any additives besides the two-part?

[Timbera]

I've had luck with kalkwasser in my ATO. It's a cheap way to keep things steady, but you gotta monitor pH closely. What's your pH looking like?

[Falconer9]

Sounds like you're doing a lot right. Maybe just tweak one thing at a time so you don't throw everything off. Start with testing more often, like burrow said.