jfry Posted May 25, 2017 Share Posted May 25, 2017 Greetings, I have been struggling to figure out the source of ammonia in my salt mixing reservoirs. The system is equipped with two separate (100 gallon & 200 gallon) reservoirs. Both are measuring about 0.25 ppm ammonia. While both can be conjoined they are currently operated independently. The incoming RO/DI water tests negative for ammonia, yet when mixed with Instant Ocean Reef Crystals there is a very distinct lime green ~0.25 ppm NH3 presence. I can only deduce that this is due to the salt mix, but wanted to solicit for others similar experiences? The other option that occurs to me is that the biofilm has perished and has decomposed within the reservoir...however, it does not make sense to me as to why now this is an issue in both systems? Any thoughts would be appreciated, Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TheClark Posted May 25, 2017 Share Posted May 25, 2017 Interesting! I did a little research based on your question, here is what some say: " all salt mixes have some ammonia in them as a contaminant, possibly from the magnesium chloride" "If you aerate the mix overnight, you should find no ammonia left as some chemical reactions take some time to finish after mixing. " "API regularly reads .25 or so when it is actually 0, i just ignore anything that low" Curious what you find out, please let us know. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jfry Posted May 25, 2017 Author Share Posted May 25, 2017 Interesting points, the reservoirs have been recirculating with significant aeration for nearly a week. I used the same API NH3 test kit for both the reservoir, RO/DI water, and city water, I am not convinced it is a false positive. That said I did remedy situation with a little amquel plus, nonetheless it is certainly less than ideal to have any reading in the first place. I think I will start looking into the MgCl aspect a bit closer.-thanks Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TheClark Posted May 25, 2017 Share Posted May 25, 2017 Interesting! I agree, you had the circulation, and the same test kit tested 0 on other sources of water. Sure seems to point to the salt. Good luck on your investigation and please post back what you find. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jonas503 Posted May 25, 2017 Share Posted May 25, 2017 Maybe try a different test kit? That is very strange. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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