pH buffer caused tank to be cloudy

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Aw3s0m3

Aw3s0m3

Piranha
MFK Member
May 6, 2012
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Over there
A couple weeks ago I got the API 7.5 pH buffer and followed the directions on the back, 1 scoop/10g and it turned my entire tank cloudy. I've done 2 wc's since then without adding it and the tank is still just as cloudy as the first day. How long will this take to clear up? It's really annoying cuz I can't even see my fish, or anything, anymore unless it's right up against the glass ImageUploadedByMonsterAquariaNetwork1394909078.818418.jpg


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Not sure why, that's odd.
i just wouldn't use chemicals to change pH. Just put in some limestone and take it out when it gets to where you want it, leave it in to long and it will get much higher than 7.5!
 
divemaster99 said:
Not sure why, that's odd.
i just wouldn't use chemicals to change pH. Just put in some limestone and take it out when it gets to where you want it, leave it in to long and it will get much higher than 7.5!
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I don't really use it to raise or lower the pH cuz my tap is naturally around 7.5 so I don't feel I need limestone. I use it cuz its home to my most prized fish, a goonch, and when all 3 of my previous ones randomly died, I decided to take all precautions including using a buffer just in case something causes the pH to swing. I thought it was just cycling all over again cuz I cleaned it really well after the others died but I'm still showing no ammonia or nitrites so I decided to do a test and used it in my parents goldfish tank and immediately the next day, the tank was just as cloudy so I knew it was the buffer causing it.


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If your pH is already 7.5, (in very simplistic terms) the buffer has no where to go. but to precipitate (and turn your water cloudy), until the pH drops and begins to use the extra buffer up (which can take time).
Instead of adding chemicals, you'd be better off just doing more frequent water changes to prevent swings.
I realize your in CA and in the midst of a drought, so just use the old water again to water plants or flush toilets and it won't seem such a waste.
Where I live water is plentiful, but I still always use old fish water daily to flush toilets, and in summer water the garden, and foliage.
 
duanes said:
If your pH is already 7.5, (in very simplistic terms) the buffer has no where to go. but to precipitate (and turn your water cloudy), until the pH drops and begins to use the extra buffer up (which can take time).
Instead of adding chemicals, you'd be better off just doing more frequent water changes to prevent swings.
I realize your in CA and in the midst of a drought, so just use the old water again to water plants or flush toilets and it won't seem such a waste.
Where I live water is plentiful, but I still always use old fish water daily to flush toilets, and in summer water the garden, and foliage.
Click to expand...

Thanks. I was just using the buffer as a precaution to prevent pH swings because 1 of the more respected members on here commented that since I don't use a buffer, my pH may fluctuate a little during the week and this can cause stress and eventually death to my more sensitive fish


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I dump a little crushed coral into my charcoal/carbon media at every filter change. It acts as a buffer and I have no issues with my huge Cichlids P.H...It keeps water from becoming acidic in between water changes. I change about 40% every two weeks. Filters once every two months. (One of two filters on each tank.) So as to keep the water cycled. These intervals work for me. Fish and tanks are very healthy.
 
ZEROPILOT said:
I dump a little crushed coral into my charcoal/carbon media at every filter change. It acts as a buffer and I have no issues with my huge Cichlids P.H...It keeps water from becoming acidic in between water changes. I change about 40% every two weeks. Filters once every two months. (One of two filters on each tank.) So as to keep the water cycled. These intervals work for me. Fish and tanks are very healthy.
Click to expand...

That's a good idea! I've got some coral skeletons from my reef tank I can break up. Thanks


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lol I had same problem any kind of Ph buffer made my tank cloudy but it always gets better the next day
 
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