View Full Version : how high can your alk go
dhammers06
10/18/2009, 09:00 PM
so i tested my carbonate hardness and it was 14. im having problems keeping my ph at 8.3 so i buffer and get it to stay for a day but it stays steady at 8 i dont want to keep buffering or my alk will go through the roof any suggestions
i have a milwaukee ph meter monitoring my ph daily which i calibrate monthly
obiwanthegoby
10/18/2009, 09:21 PM
What brand test are you using....? Some manufactureres have had some bad tests put out in recent times. Also what are you using to buffer the water, you may be experiencing the same thing I was a few months ago. I was using Sea Chem's Reef Buffer and it will "artificially" make Alk readings higher than they truly are. One of the big Chem Buffs will have to step in and explain but I believe it's due to Sea Chem's use of Borate.
~obi
Toadally
10/18/2009, 09:32 PM
That's the problem with using a buffer to keep your ph up. I would stop using the buffer and let the alk come down on it's own. A ph below 8.0 is not all that bad. What are you keeping in your tank?
Randy Holmes-Farley
10/19/2009, 04:45 AM
Yes, buffers are not the way to go to deal with low pH problems. They boost alkalinity and often do not solve the low pH. pH steady at 8.0 is fine, but if you want to raise it, this has more:
Low pH: Causes and Cures
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-09/rhf/index.htm
and
The "How To" Guide to Reef Aquarium Chemistry for Beginners, Part 3: pH
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2007-05/rhf/index.php
HighlandReefer
10/19/2009, 06:46 AM
To increase your pH some, Kalk (lime water) is the way to go. Kalk is the cheapest method to maintain your alk. and calcium levels according to Randy's articles. Also, when using kalk water properly, you will be adding the least amount of contaminates to your tank water vs the other methods of supplementation.
What Your Grandmother Never Told You About Lime
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2005-01/rhf/index.htm
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