vetteguy53081
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We often see persons with alk issues and often calcium is mentioned and others indicating slow growth with their coral and rarely is there mention of ph. So how important is Ph and what is it? It's the parts or measurement of hydrogen why it is affected by Co2. The lower the PH level is the greater the level of hydrogen ions. Rarely do we see issues with high PH, but rather those with Low ph. An acceptable range is 7.7-8.4 but more important when seeing these numbers is to get the PH to remain as stable as possible with one value.
Often what drops PH numbers are a strong bioload, too much Co2 in the room/dwelling and mineral deficiencies.
Often when there is a PH issue, many run to buffers or magic chemicals in lieu of finding the cause. Its important to locate the cause. It is normal for ph numbers to fall at night as during the phase of daylight, as Co2 builds up and at lights out, the Co2 is released by organisms.
Stabilization can be accomplished by CA reactors, a refugium with algae and even although can be risky- sodium hydroxide. Safest is a protein skimmer which offers a good gas exchange along with good room ventilation depending on the time of the year as many of do not open windows during the winter.
Soda lime is a used method in the hobby to elevate ph as it binds Co2 from the room air. Its best when air passes through a cartridge via a skimmer and the lime better known as a Co2 scrubber. There are many additives and media and even buffers I see out them but regard them as an alternative and not always a solution.
I keep my PH at 8.4 to compensate for drop at night which is often 8.0-8.1
What do you keep your PH level at and why?
Do you have a problem with PH or is it stable?
What have you done to tackle changes in PH?
Often what drops PH numbers are a strong bioload, too much Co2 in the room/dwelling and mineral deficiencies.
Often when there is a PH issue, many run to buffers or magic chemicals in lieu of finding the cause. Its important to locate the cause. It is normal for ph numbers to fall at night as during the phase of daylight, as Co2 builds up and at lights out, the Co2 is released by organisms.
Stabilization can be accomplished by CA reactors, a refugium with algae and even although can be risky- sodium hydroxide. Safest is a protein skimmer which offers a good gas exchange along with good room ventilation depending on the time of the year as many of do not open windows during the winter.
Soda lime is a used method in the hobby to elevate ph as it binds Co2 from the room air. Its best when air passes through a cartridge via a skimmer and the lime better known as a Co2 scrubber. There are many additives and media and even buffers I see out them but regard them as an alternative and not always a solution.
I keep my PH at 8.4 to compensate for drop at night which is often 8.0-8.1
What do you keep your PH level at and why?
Do you have a problem with PH or is it stable?
What have you done to tackle changes in PH?