What needs to be added back into RO Water

[angel626]

I am using RO water in my tank and have told that I need to add additives back into it. Today I went to my LFS and asked them about it and they showed me three bottles of stuff that I'm suppose to use. Do I really need to use three different things?

What additives do I really need to use? I am currently using calcium, magnesium and Iodine. Thanks.

[Reefscape]

you dont really need to be adding any additives back to the tank, all the trace elements are already there in the water...Of course, if there is a defficiency, then, yes, they need to be added...normally, you dont need any..

Niko

[5xevy]

Right on. Just curious what the 3 bottles were that the LFS showed you?

Some people do dose with iodine but it's not necessary. Others dose with calcium if they can't keep their levels above 400. Those two are pretty popular but again, not necessary. How are all your levels?

Edited to add- if you're using a decent salt and performing your basic water changes you should have about the right amount of everything in your tank.

[angel626]

He told me to add Kent Essential Elements, Kent Tech CB part A and Part B.

[Fishieness]

IMO, youd be fine without the essential elements as long as you do normal water changes. and test your ca and ALK before adding the two part solution. but unless you are either using a crappy salt or have a good coral load, you probably dont need to use them either.

[Riverserver]

It really depends on your salt mix. Some add trace elements back in, some don't. I am using Instant Ocean, and I add a capful of trace elements back into the water mid-week.

[New Reefer]

IMO, youd be fine without the essential elements as long as you do normal water changes. and test your ca and ALK before adding the two part solution.
Agreed. No additives apart from a balanced calcium and alkalinity supplement - all the rest will only benefit the LFS, NOT your tank.

Hennie