Raising pH

[dmolavi]

In my 20 gallon FOWLR, I did a pH test today, and it came out at 8.0, which is on the low side.

My KH is 9, which is smack in the middle of where it should be.

I was thinking of using SeaChem's Marine Buffer to bring up the pH to 8.3. However, I'm concerned that it might screw up my KH. Am I being paranoid?

(Full disclosure, I'm using RO/DI water with Instant Ocean Sea Salt).

 

[mr_X]

I would not add anything. How is the gas exchange? Do you have a good amount of surface area exposed to air, and is the surface somewhat turbulent? This will effect ph.

 

[dmolavi]

There is a very loose fitting (so they don't jump) plastic cover that will be replaced with a screen cover shortly. That being said, there is a large opening, the length of the tank by about 2 1/2 inches deep, in the back.

The surface is moderately turbulent; I will be putting a HOB on the back so that I can run Purigen, so that will stir things up even more.

 

[mr_X]

That may be enough to raise it a bit. I wouldn't be overly worried if the PH stayed at 8, just as long as it wasn't fluctuating a lot.

 

[dmolavi]

It's still at 8.0-ish. I might borrow a digital pH meter from a friend to get a second opinion. ..esp since this tank will eventually have corals.