DownwardDawg
New member
I tested the ph on my two tanks today and the 30 was a little low according to the API test kit. It read about 7.8. Is this something I should be concerened about? How can I safely rasie it if I need to? Marine buffer?
Low PH
- Thread starter DownwardDawg
- Start date
Try and bring in more fresh air. The pH is being lowered by CO2 in the air around the tank. Take some water and aerate it outside for an hour and then measure the pH. If it comes up significantly then CO2 is the issue. Chemical pH tests are not the most accurate. Have it tested with a calibrated pH meter. Adding a buffer will temporarily raise the pH, but it will go back down and you will end up with high alkalinity. By the way you have high PO4. I suggest running some phosphate remover.
DownwardDawg
New member
Thanks. Yeah, I'm workin on the PO4. I was using my RODI unit improperly for a while. The membrane was not seated correctly and I was getting WAY too much product. It was much higher than that but is coming down now. I just bought a reactor this week.
Anyway, as you can see my alkalinity is fine so I don't want to raise that any. I'll try your test suggestion. Corals and fish are fine. I just got bored and thought I'd test things I don't test frequently...ph, ammonia, nitrite
Anyway, as you can see my alkalinity is fine so I don't want to raise that any. I'll try your test suggestion. Corals and fish are fine. I just got bored and thought I'd test things I don't test frequently...ph, ammonia, nitrite
DownwardDawg
New member
Yep. Coraline algae growth is just now picking back up. I only have softies for now. Im not adding any lps until I get those phosphates in check.
DownwardDawg
New member
Thanks for the advice by the way.
I have a small fan blowing over the top of my tank all the time and it prevents the CO2 buildup, though the increased evaporation is annoying, it also keeps the tank cooler. Might be something to consider. I usually don't open the windows in the room as there are tropical reptiles in there as well.
That said, a pH of 7.8 is nothing to panic over, just try to raise it slowly. Test your Alk as well before you add any buffer.
That said, a pH of 7.8 is nothing to panic over, just try to raise it slowly. Test your Alk as well before you add any buffer.
If you want to raise pH (if it drops below 7.8, I would), more aeration with fresher air, and the use of limewater are the best choices.
These have more that may be helpful. There is an aeration test in the second one that will tell you if you need fresher air or simply more aeration to help bring up pH:
The "How To" Guide to Reef Aquarium Chemistry for Beginners, Part 3: pH
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2007-05/rhf/index.php
Low pH: Causes and Cures
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-09/rhf/index.htm
These have more that may be helpful. There is an aeration test in the second one that will tell you if you need fresher air or simply more aeration to help bring up pH:
The "How To" Guide to Reef Aquarium Chemistry for Beginners, Part 3: pH
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2007-05/rhf/index.php
Low pH: Causes and Cures
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-09/rhf/index.htm
DownwardDawg
New member
Thanks Randy!
You're welcome.
Happy Reefing.
Happy Reefing.
