Reefzlements pH plus

[Aquariumaddictuk]

I've been using reefzlements pH plus for some time & finally decided to drag myself into somewhat modern times with a reeffactory pH probe.
Even without co2 scrubber I'm hitting 8.7ph towards end of day.
I've no idea of the science behind their claims that the solution raises pH beyond the scope of kalkwasser or co2 scrubbers but it does seem to somehow be doing just that.
I'm guessing it's been running this high for some time.
Alk is 7.2-7.5 consistently & no signs of precipitates.
I did add a large acro colony one month ago which is rapidly encrusting & assumed caused the alk uptake increase but with pH this high I'm assuming precipitation must be taking place.

What's the danger of running pH this high?
I'm debating switching over to standard all solution or a DIY mix.
Corals are showing good growth & colour and acro's are thriving.
Should I just leave it alone?

 

[Aquariumaddictuk]

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

It is likely sodium hydroxide, which I have diy recipes for. It raises pH exactly the same as kalkwasser per unit of alk added, but does not have the evaporation limitations. Even theoretically, no product that is added to the water can boost pH more than hydroxide.

The drawback of pH that high is primarily excessive precipitation of calcium carbonate.

FWIW, I would not be sure pH 8.7 is accurate.

 

[Aquariumaddictuk]

It is likely sodium hydroxide, which I have diy recipes for. It raises pH exactly the same as kalkwasser per unit of alk added, but does not have the evaporation limitations. Even theoretically, no product that is added to the water can boost pH more than hydroxide.

The drawback of pH that high is primarily excessive precipitation of calcium carbonate.

FWIW, I would not be sure pH 8.7 is accurate.

I've calibrated the unit twice but I'm probably a little too old and cynical to entirely trust all this new fangled automation & monitoring so I am taking reading with a pinch of salt.
I'll monitor over the next few days but I'm tempted to just go through DIY dosing route regardless.
Many thanks for reply randy!

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I've calibrated the unit twice but I'm probably a little too old and cynical to entirely trust all this new fangled automation & monitoring so I am taking reading with a pinch of salt.
I'll monitor over the next few days but I'm tempted to just go through DIY dosing route regardless.
Many thanks for reply randy!

You're welcome.

Good luck!