Ph difference

[m_wonnacott]

Ok so this morning I tested the nitrate in my tank and found it at 20 (was away for three weeks with no water changes during that time). So I made up a fresh batch of salt water so that I can do a water change. I just finished doing a full test on both the tank and the fresh salt water. The tanks ph is reading 7.8 with API test kit while the water mixing tank, which hasn't had a powerhead in it (being used to cycle some new rock) is reading a PH of 8-8.2 with the same test. I have been stiring that fresh salt water regularly throughout the day.

So what I am wondering is will the difference in PH effect the tank with a 5 gal water change. Or should I wait till tomorrow to see if the PH comes down?

 

[crvz]

I would not personally think twice about pH in this case. Of much more immediate concern is salinity and temperature, particularly if pH is that close. I'd also point out that accurate pH readings through a test kit are highly unlikely; you're much better served getting a nice pH probe (with either a simple monitor or more complicated controller) to get a good read on pH.

 

[Humu Humu]

Your pH of 8 to 8.2 with a new salt mix is just about right where it should be, so your test kit sounds like it's right on. Adding 5 gallons of the new mix to your 55 slowly should help bring the tank back up a bit to the desired range of pH 8.2. So I would do the water change.

 

[m_wonnacott]

I did go ahead and to the water change this afternoon and Ph is now at about 8