low pH (unique problem)

[aalhait]

OK, this is wierd...

I've added 2 part solutions today and my pH does not want to rise!

Readings:

Ca = 480 (maybe even 500) (Pro Ca Tester)
Alk = 16 (used to be 12) I raised it today to try to raise pH! (used 2 testers)
pH is around 8.1 varies between (7.9-8.07 now) (have 3 readings)
Mg is enough (around 1280-1300 ppm) (Pro tester)
O2 is 10-12 (Pro tester)
ORP 418
Temp = 80
SG 1.025
Cond is around 55-60
NO3 is 18 but I don't think that has anything to do with it.
PO4 = 0

All readings are calibrated and accurate... Did it at least with 2 different vendors and/or probe readings.

Here's the only differnence...

I've added Brightwell Restore and Reef BioFuel about 15 ml each!
Could that be causing pH to drop that much!??? and why cannot I raise it with Alk!

[Percula9]

The pH is well within normal limits. Don't add any more buffer until alk comes down to normal levels 7-11dkh. The pH is being brought down by the amount of CO2 in the surrounding air. Try to get more fresh air by the tank or pumped into your skimmer. Adding a refugium with macroalgae can help. Like I said your pH is fine. Kalkwasser can raise pH but also raises alk.

[kgross]

Yup. don't buffer unless your alk is low. You need to eliminate the CO2 to get the pH to rise. But your pH is fine don't worry about it.
Kim

[aalhait]

How can the CO2 be high is the O2 is so high! It's up to 12 now.

I have a refuge with algae and I have the room airated well especially today. (That's the puzzle for me)

[Percula9]

Try measuring the pH in a cup of water away from the tank. What units is the O2 measuring at? If the units are in ppm, I doubt they are that high. The most they could be is 9ppm. Is this a chemical test or a meter?

[troyman]

i would be more concerned with the high alkiline

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

In a reef tank, there is no strong connection between CO2 levels and O2 levels. Both can be elevated, both deficient, etc.

Adding an organic material such as the Biofuel will increase the CO2 level and consequently drop the pH. It is metabolized to produce CO2. It will not necessarily drop the O2 measurably if photosynthesis is driving O2 up.