Reef Builder 600g SEACHEM

Reef Builder 600 g Seachem – increase in carbonate alkalinity in reef aquariums

Reef Builder increases carbonate alkalinity (KH) without an immediate impact on pH. With long-term use, the pH tends to stabilize around 8.3. When used according to recommendations, Reef Builder does not deplete calcium, magnesium, or strontium, elements that often tend to precipitate when alkalinity increases.

Reef Builder and Reef Buffer can be used together. Reef Builder is designed to increase alkalinity without significantly affecting the pH, while Reef Buffer is intended to increase both the pH and carbonate alkalinity.

Main features

Reef tank parameter goals

The alkalinity of reefs should ideally be maintained between 3 and 6 meq/L (8 to 17 dKH). The alkalinity should not drop below 2 meq/L.

Instructions for use

Beginner level

Use 3 g of product for 150 L of water, twice a week.

Dissolve in at least 250 ml of fresh water, then add to the aquarium.

Check the alkalinity every two weeks and adjust the quantity or frequency if necessary.

Advanced level

Measure the alkalinity, then follow the addition schedule until reaching 3 to 6 meq/L (8 to 17 dKH).

Each dose of 3 g per 150 L increases the alkalinity by approximately 0.25 meq/L.

The quantity or frequency can be adjusted, not exceeding 12 g for 150 L per day.

Then, use as needed to maintain alkalinity.

Expert level

After determining the rate of alkalinity consumption, a continuous drip system can be implemented.

The amount to add to the make-up water can be calculated using the following formula: m = 0.08 × v × a, where m corresponds to the grams to be added, v to the volume of the aquarium in liters, and a to the desired increase in meq/L.

Example: to increase the alkalinity by 1 meq/L in a 200 L aquarium, add 16 g to the top-up water.

Important considerations

Important adjustments must be made gradually to avoid overshooting the target or stressing the corals and invertebrates.

Dissolve in at least one cup of fresh water before adding.

An excess of alkalinity can increase the loss of calcium, magnesium, and strontium.

Do not mix directly with a calcium, magnesium, or strontium supplement. It is advisable to space the additions by at least 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Difference between Reef Builder and Reef Buffer

Reef Builder is designed to increase alkalinity with minimal impact on pH. Reef Buffer is intended to raise pH while increasing carbonate alkalinity. When pH is the main concern, Reef Buffer is more suitable. When the goal is to adjust KH without significantly influencing pH, Reef Builder is more suitable.

Solution trouble during dissolution

When dissolved at the prescribed concentrations, a slight turbidity may be observed. It is recommended to add Reef Builder to the water. Osmosed, Stir for a few minutes or let it sit for about 10 minutes, then add to the container. Small amounts may remain undissolved after prolonged resting, particularly if a small amount of calcium carbonate forms, which is considered normal.

Preparation for an automatic assay

Calculations can be used to determine the weekly quantity needed based on the measured consumption of the tank, and then convert this quantity into a daily dosage. An estimate suggests that about 1 teaspoon of Reef Builder can be dissolved in 150 ml of liquid, allowing for a concentrated solution that can be used in automatic distribution according to the system's needs.

Contents of the package

Reef Builder Seachem packaged in a 600 g jar.