Balling method
Balling is the most widespread method for integrating calcium, KH and magnesium into a reef aquarium. It is based on three separate solutions dosed in proportion.
Detailed explanation
Invented by Hans-Werner Balling in the 90s, this method solves a fundamental problem: corals consume calcium, carbonates and magnesium from the water and must be replenished without creating imbalances.
The three classic solutions contain calcium chloride (for calcium), sodium bicarbonate or sodium carbonate (for KH) and a mixture of magnesium salts (magnesium chloride and sulfate). They are dosed in volumes equal or proportional to the consumption of the aquarium.
The advantage of Balling compared to kalkwasser or calcium reactor is precision. You can dose exactly how much you need. With automatic dosing pumps the dosage occurs in microdoses distributed over 24 hours, keeping the parameters stable as a straight line.
Today there are dozens of commercial Balling systems: Aquaforest Component 1+2+3+, Red Sea Foundation ABC, ATI Essentials, Fauna Marin Balling Light, Triton Core7, Tropic Marin All-For-Reef. Each has different concentrations.
Coralia Lab supports 24+ brands in its Balling calculator and calculates the exact doses based on your aquarium consumption. You can also switch brands seamlessly thanks to the Brand Switcher.
Balling is not used for freshwater aquariums. Mineral integration in freshwater aquariums follows different logics (plant fertilisers, osmosis reconstitution salts).
How it is measured
Balling itself is not measured, its effects are measured: calcium (380-450 ppm), KH (7-12 dKH), magnesium (1250-1400 ppm). Dosage adjustment occurs by comparing before and after values to determine daily consumption.
Coralia Lab monitors this parameter with AI diagnostics. Tank Score alerts you when a value moves outside the recommended range for your aquarium.
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