Enclosed is link that shows one of our very basic reef aquarium set ups. Tips are included as to The Why's & How's of of this aquarium.
http://www.reefaquariumguide.com/for...-aquarium.html
To answer your questions.
1) The proper initial set up is required.
2) The proper suport items are essential.
Without the above, continual chemical (aquarium water chemistry parameter) imbalances will occur.
For those with the proper initial set up and use of proper support equipment..... If there is need for pH adjustment or alkalinity buffering... It is essential to use a "buffer" that is composed of various agents in a balanced form that will adjust pH and alkalinity to the desired levels.
The addition of unbalanced chemicals will push alkalinity up while adjusting pH levels to potentially unsafe levels.
If there is need to raise calcium, it is essential to introduce a balanced calcium additive solution that is composed of various forms of bio available calcium. Not simply calcium chloide or calcium hydroxide.
It is best to use a multi-form of calcium that will not alter pH or inhibit or enhance alkalinity. If periodic additions of a liquid multi form calcium supplement is too troublesome, this can be introduced via dosing.
When spending a little time with the baking soda and ice melt group, it becomes obvious their level of marine aquarium education is frighteningly low.
When asked where they got their information, all reply they did "on-line research".
The manufacturer of the ice melt salt openly cautions hobbyists not to use their product for aquarium use.
At the same time hundreds of individuals have posted asking for someone to reassure them that the use of this very item is OK!
IMO, information provided that encourages hobbyists to use improper items is found on the worlds largest bathroom wall - web sites that pander to the lowest mental common denominator.