pH problem

[parkerdt]

Hi all,

I have a failry new 58 setup with 85lbs LR, an Amiracle MR-200 sump with Quiet One 3000 return pump, and an Aqua C Urchin Pro in-sump skimmer. I run a Current USA SunPod - 2x150 14k HQI metal halides about 14 hours per day.

I buffer with Seachem Reef Buffer and my CA usually reads in the 400-450 range. Ammonia 0 Nitrites 0 Nitrates about 10 after water change - change 25% weekly. I use the Digital Auqatics ReefKeeper II controller which has a built-in pH monitor.

Livestock is 4 tiny Ocellaris Clowns, a medium-sized Lawnmower Blenny, and a small Potter's Angel (around 2" or so). I have one decent sized frag of pulsing Xenia with about 5 stalks.

I can't seem to keep my pH up to save my soul - just about every morning it has dipped slightly below 8, and I does with a teaspoon of buffer dissolved in freshwater.

What are the next steps to try and control this pH issue?

thanks,
Dave

[fio1022]

That doesn't seem that low.
Ph will drop when lights are off.

[parkerdt]

But is it normal to have to use buffer almost every day?

Dave

[fio1022]

Check your Alk.It is directly related.
I dose with limewater which takes care of Ca,Alk,and Ph.
If you have the time there's the chemistry forum.You can read till you can read no more...
I'm by no means an expert but I'm sure others will add in here.

[Billybeau1]

You are likely experiencing excessive CO2 in the home which is suppressing your pH. You can find out for sure by performing the outside aeration test notes in this article.

Low pH Causes and cures
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-09/rhf/index.htm

This is very common in the summertime when our houses are closed up.

[mg426]

This is very common in the summertime when our houses are closed up


I agree with Billybeau1 Co2 can really mess with your PH, the aeration test is very easy to do.

[chris.hampton]

You could try taking the PH reading a couple of hours after the lights have come on, the Co2 build up is due to the lack of photosynthesis going on at night time when the lights are off, but give it a couple of hours when the corals have kicked in again and are producing oxygen again!!

[parkerdt]

I got some airstones today and will try the aeation test tonight.

thanks,
Dave