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unbalanced ph

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ph issues
560 views 3 replies 2 participants last post by  datpapi@yahoo.com 
How old is the 28g tank? Do you have live rock and/or a substrate in it?

Generally, once established the LR and most substrate will help buffer the pH to correct levels. In new tanks, this takes awhile as the cycling will lower pH.

If this is an older tank, you may want to test your alk level. This plays a big part too. If alk is good (my tank is happy at around 7dkh, tho the range can be between 6-14dkh) and there is decent surface agitation of the water, then pH should buffer in the 8-8.2 range naturally with regular water changes.
 
hmm. At that age, you shouldnt have too much trouble with pH unless there is a C02 problem. You can test this by taking some tank water in a container, placing an airstone in it for about an hour or two and then testing the pH. If it rises, then you'll have to increase agitation at the surface of the tank's water.

If you don't have a kit to test for alk, you'll want to get one. As you attempt to raise pH with different buffers, this can raise you're alk too. You could even use baking soda and washing soda (sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate) to raise and help buffer the system.

However, any buffer is eventually going to wear out. You'll definitely want to isolate the reason why your pH is drifting down. Usually high C02 levels in the tank is the cause
 
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