methods for raising alkalinity

[snajhawa]

I have been having trouble keeping my alkalinity high, or even above 7. I have been maintaining a level of 6.5 with baking soda but unable to raise it any further. I keep many sps corals and calcifying inverts in a 10 gal "minimal setup" with weekly 10% water changes with RC. My setup includes 1 powersweep powerhead, 2 hang on filters, 175watts MH, and a diy air driven nano skimmer. The sps are showing great growth, however I do have PH swings from 8.0-8.7 morning to evening. Any suggestions? tips? thoughts on baking soda? should I use a commercial buffer like seachem in a small setup? Thanks

 

[ct_vol]

Nothing wrong with using baking soda...

Try reading this:

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-05/rhf/index.php

And then read this:

http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/nov2002/chem.htm

Hopefully they will help you out and give you some answers.

 

[themadreeferTN]

Baking soda is only one component used in buffers. If your looking for a commercial buffer the kent superbuffer has three components including sodium bicarbonate in it. The other components are sodium carbonate and borate salts.

 

[Chris27]

Have you verified that your Mag is in the proper range? Low mag makes it very difficult to keep alk and calcium in check.