Vodka Method

SlingingBuddha · Dec 10, 2012

So I am currently watching my tank be consumed with LHA so I decided to start researching methods to get rid of it (cleaner pack in route) and I stumbled upon a so called "vodka method" I have researched further & found out what it is specifically my question is have any of you used it personally?

Also, my phos levels seem to be at a .25 I read this could be the culprit but I use an RO/DI so shouldn't they be at a 0?

mnat · Dec 10, 2012

People have been successful with it. If you are not a dose and test every day guy you can look at bio pellets which is essentially solid carbon dosing. The bigger question is have you tested nitrates and phosphates

downbeach · Dec 10, 2012

You're adding PO4 every time you feed your tank. What are you using to measure your PO4? What is your NO3 level. Keep in mind what you are reading is what's left over after the HA has utilized what it needs, so in reality it's even higher than your test kits indicate.

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-09/rhf/index.php#4

SlingingBuddha · Dec 11, 2012

My nitrates are a 0 & my phos seem to be a .25 which seems high to me I'm using an API test kit but I'm getting new kits for Xmas or I'd just buy them now. I've tried using phosbuster pro but it doesn't seem to be helping

Chrisgarrick · Dec 11, 2012

Jr I have a salifert kit. If u want ill come over and test this weekend. Call me.

SlingingBuddha · Dec 11, 2012

That would be awesome Chris, for some reason I can't get rid of this damn algae

jpkrze · Dec 21, 2012

I would save the vodka for personal consumption

But, I like to keep things simple on my tank and just dose kalk in ato. Less feeding, more wet skimming, water changes. Give the HA some time to burn itself out. Natural predators will also help keep it in check, snails, blennys, dwarf angel. It wont go away overnight. Just my 2cents

radiata · Dec 21, 2012

Vinegar

I must agree with jpkrze - save the vodka for personal consumption! If you are compelled to dose carbon, use vinegar. Vinegar is good enough for Randy Holmes-Farley, and it is therefore good enough for me (I myself use the cheap Shop Rite house brand). And, vinegar is a lot less expensive than vodka.

Obligatory Vodka Toast:

"May neighbors respect you,
Trouble neglect you,
The angels protect you,
And heaven accept you."

Bob

Vodka Method

Officer Emeritus