Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find answers to the most common questions about using Hydro-Calc.

General

Is Hydro-Calc free to use?

Yes, Hydro-Calc is currently free to use. You can create an account, manage your substances, and run optimizations without any cost.

Do I need an account to use Hydro-Calc?

No! You can use Hydro-Calc without registering. As an anonymous user you can browse the global substance library, build mixtures, and use your shelf. However, anonymous sessions have a 24-hour expiry — your data will be automatically deleted after that. Register for a free account to save your work permanently.

What can I do without an account?

Anonymous users can:

• Browse and use the Global Substance Library
• Create and calculate Mixtures
• Use the Shelf to manage substances for the session
• View Water Quality, Nutrient Targets, and Ratios data

The following features require a registered account:

• Running Optimizations (standard and cost-based)
• Creating custom substances, water quality profiles, ratios, and nutrient targets
• Feed Schedules and Feed Logs
• Account Settings

Can I use Hydro-Calc on my mobile device?

Absolutely! Hydro-Calc is built as a responsive web application that works great on desktops, tablets, and smartphones. You can even install it as a PWA (Progressive Web App) for a native-like experience.

Mixtures & Optimization

Why didn't the optimization find a solution?

Sometimes, it's mathematically impossible to hit a specific nutrient target with the substances you've selected. Try adding different substances that contain the missing nutrients, or relax your target constraints.

How do I account for the nutrients in my tap water?

You can create a Water Quality profile and associate it with your mixture. The optimization engine will then subtract the nutrients present in your water from the target, ensuring you don't over-fertilize.

What units does Hydro-Calc use?

Nutrient targets are defined in ppm (parts per million). Substance amounts are typically calculated in grams per liter or milliliters per liter, depending on whether the substance is a solid or liquid.

Account & Data

Is my data private?

Yes. Your substances, mixtures, and logs are private to your account. We do not share your personal data.

Can I share my mixtures with others?

Yes! You can share your saved mixtures with others using the Save and Share button in the mixture editor. This generates a unique, public link. The recipient can view the mixture details and optionally import it into their own account. See Sharing a Mixture for full details.

How do I reset my password?

If you've forgotten your password, you can use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page to receive a password reset email.