PH Question

[Wulfonce]

Why is the PH out of my tap 6.2 and the PH in all my freshwater tanks is off the charts at 8.0+ (probably more like 9 based on test results). The tanks are all lightly stocked and have no real plants.

Does aquarium salt raise ph?

Any ideas...

 

[jcardona1]

decor can change your ph. for example, driftwood lowers your ph. and certain substrates may raise your ph...

 

[crisper]

What are you using as substate.

 

[JakeH]

Are the tanks new? What are your KH & GH levels?

 

[Toby_H]

First step... fill up a 5 gal bucket then add an airstone or powerhead... let it sit overnight.. then test it... this will tell you what the PH of the tap water actually is...

I do not know exactly/scientifically why, but straight out of the tap the PH can sometimes give a false reading...

Some aquarium salts can/do alter PH. Read the label on the salt you are using. Some brands may say somethi glike "conditions water" which may include bringing the PH to around 8.3, which is what is typically desired for salt water tanks.

Coral, or other calcium based items, will buffer the PH to approx 8.3 also... I'm sure there are many other substances that will also alter the PH...

I would check your salt and get an actual PH reading on your tap water first... then explore other options...

 

[MadRussian79]

If off gassing the water as nc_nutcase suggests dosn't bring up your pH it is possible that the acid half of the buffers used in your water is being absorbed/consumed biologically causing your pH to spike.

 

[brianp]

I have seen this pH increase when using play sand as a substrate. So, my guess is that it's the substrate, rocks, etc. Aquarium salt will not increase pH, but marine salts, such as Instant Ocean will.

BTW...I was in Best Buy last Friday, feeling somewhat nostalgic and couldn't resist purchasing that same Rush CD. I've been playing "Anthem" over and over again...driving my wife nuts.