saltwater ph

Question
My reef tank has a ph of 8.6.  I hear a lot about increasing ph, but how do you lower it? Or is higher better?  The alkalinity is also approaching the high levels (2.8 or more)

Answer


Michael,

Ph should range between 8.2 and 8.4.  Alkalinity should read 8.4 dkh to 9.8 dkh or 3.0  meq/l to 3.5 meq/l this is an ideal range for reef tanks.  PH is sometimes higher at night time. Try to test your water in the afternoon.   Have you added any calcium in the past few days, this may raise your ph level as well.

Also look at your corals and fish they will tell you if things are not up to par.  Is your test kit any good or is it old.  I love Salifert test kits they are extremely accurate.

You can always perform small water changes 3-5% for the next couple of days. Stay away from any products that lower ph they may be harmful to your tank mates. If ph gets any higher let me know.
Thanks
Todd