PH level in Saltwater aqaurium

Question
I am just setting up my first SW tank.  have kept fresh in the past.  The new tank is 120 gallon.  The SP is 1.023 with only 80 pounds of live sand in it right now.  I have not tested for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate since there is no live rock or livestock in the tank yet.  I will test for these before placing any fish/invertabrates, which will be in several weeks after the tank has time to cycle with the live rock, filters, etc.  I will be adding 100 pounds of live rock in a few days however.  My PH level is 7.5 - 7.7 right now.  What is the best way to raise the PH level to 8.2 - 8.4 and should this be down before adding the live rock?

Thank you,
James


Answer
James,
Get a pH buffer like Kent Marine's Super Buffer and follow the directions very closely.  This should assist you in buffering the pH level to an acceptable level between 8.0 and 8.4.  8.2 is ideal.

If this doesn't help after using it for a week then you should look at your alkalinity and oxygen content in the tank.

Best of luck with your tank.

Regards,
Scott Johnson
Aquarium Crazy Fish
www.aquariumcrazyfish.com