NH3 in a 6 month old tank...

[RenHoek104]

Hey guys,

I don't get it, my tank has been up and running since June and I've had several episodes of NH3 build-up. I tested my water with an API and Hagen test and both came up positive for NH3. I don't get it!?! My LFS told me once the cycle is done you should have no problems with the chemistry. My NO2 and NO3 are both at 0, my pH is around 8.2-8.4 (i use Kent Buffer), KH=11 and Ca=460.

I've asked around and no one knows why I have NH3. Reef stores all give me the "it's impossible" reply. I'm all out of ideas and about ready to throw in the towel.

I filled my tank with 40lbs of sand, 50 lbs of base rock, 15 lbs of live rock, I have an eshopps skimmer rated for 100 gallons +, a MP10 circulation pump and I'm running out of ideas of where this **** is coming from.

Any help or reasonable offers will be appreciated,
Ren