pH testing

Discussion in 'Water Chemistry' started by anpgp, Oct 30, 2009.

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  1. anpgp

    anpgp Dragon Wrasse

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    I'm just curious when you guys do your pH testing. I know it swings with the time of day and when the lights are on and off. So, when do you guys test to tell if you need to add a buffer or take any action? My pH has always been around 8.0-8.2 depending on when I test so it's not like I have a problem with my right now.
     
    anpgp, Oct 30, 2009
    anpgp, Oct 30, 2009
    #1

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  2. invert phil

    invert phil Millepora

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    I rarely measure pH, I am more concerned with alk, mg, ca+, PO4 and NO3. pH can swing a lot in just 24 hours usually from 8.0-8.3. As long as your using a descent salt mix, use live rock, some sort of filtration; macro algae/skimmer/ATS and do not overfeed your pH will be OK.

    Plus if you monitor/adjust alk you are also keeping a check on pH because these two are related.
     
    invert phil, Oct 30, 2009
    invert phil, Oct 30, 2009
    #2
  3. steve wright

    steve wright Super Moderator

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    daytime testing is best for those that do test

    PH is normally the highest it will be when lights have been on for a while

    CO2 molecules drive down PH , thats why you get a lower reading at night, as any algea, macro or micro are at that time respirating and thus giving off CO2 and affecting the PH

    if the PH stays low during the day, then 1st suspect is excess CO2 that has not escaped the tank - which is why many people dont cover their set ups


    Steve
     
    steve wright, Oct 30, 2009
    steve wright, Oct 30, 2009
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  4. anpgp

    anpgp Dragon Wrasse

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    Thanks, exactly what I wanted to know. Didn't know about the excess CO2 thing either. Just another reason for me to go topless with my Biocube and get a good T5 fixture. I've been struggling with the decision for a good long while now.
     
    anpgp, Oct 30, 2009
    anpgp, Oct 30, 2009
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  5. anpgp

    anpgp Dragon Wrasse

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    I can understand not testing for that. It's just I see so many people using pH buffers and stuff like that it just got me thinking about it tonight. Like I said, I've never had a problem with my pH and I test for alk and everything else.
     
    anpgp, Oct 30, 2009
    anpgp, Oct 30, 2009
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  6. Screwtape

    Screwtape Tonozukai Fairy Wrasse

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    Buffers IMO are not meant for reef systems because they impact alkalinity generally, just keep the room well ventilated and watch your alk and the pH should fall in line. I only keep an eye on pH as a general idea of how things are in the tank, chasing a steady 8.2 or 8.3 pH with buffers is probably more trouble than it's worth, there are lots of great tanks that run much lower regularly.
     
    Screwtape, Oct 31, 2009
    Screwtape, Oct 31, 2009
    #6