Another pH Question.

[Ibwrasstaman]

I have been observing my pH being lower than I would like. It is normally between 7.6 and 8.3. My Ca tests good around 400-450 and alkalinity is also good at 4.5 - 5.0 (The high side of the 3-5 range we want, I forget correct unit).
Initially, after reading in Sprung and Delbeek's new book, I decided to disconnect my Ca Reactor, since it may have been causing a low pH because of CO2.
I have been using Kalkwasser to top off my evaporated water, which helps temporarily bring the pH up.
I have also used a buffer, that claims to buffer to 8.3, but this also raises Alkalinity.
Finally my question! Is their a product that I can use to raise my pH and not raise alkalinity?
Secondly, If no such product exists, how about your advice what I may want to try to get my parameters all as perfect as possible?
My tank is about 150 gallons total, mixed reef with fish. I consider it a moderate bioload. I change about 25 gallons a week of Tropic Marin Proreef salt.
Appreciate any help you may provide...
Thanks,
wrassta

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

I have also used a buffer, that claims to buffer to 8.3, but this also raises Alkalinity.

Right. So that is not a good method for anyone except those that sell buffers.

Finally my question! Is their a product that I can use to raise my pH and not raise alkalinity?

No. A balanced calcium and alkalinity additive system is the best along those lines, as it will not raise alkalinity relative to calcium. For example, almost no one can get the alkalinity too high using limewater alone, because as the pH rises, demand for calcium and alkalinity also rise, and the end effect is usually quite desirable if low pH is an issue.

Growing macroalgae that consume CO2 can help raise pH a bit.

More aeration with fresh air is the other good method.

This article has more:

Low pH: Causes and Cures
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-09/rhf/index.htm

 

[Ibwrasstaman]

Thank you very much.
I guess I will start using my Ca Reactor again by just turning on some CO2. But now I will add a second stage.
I use Chaetomorpha in my refugium already, and I observe the diurnal pH swing. I plan to add a pvc pipe to bring in outside air to my skimmer.
Your article you mentioned helped me out. I really want to provide the ultimate environment for my corals and other animals.
Once again,
thanks!
wrassta

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

You're welcome and good luck.