ph low

[pensky]

What cause the PH to drop? I have a 29gal FOWLR the PH is usually steady at 8.2 but every once in a while it will drop to 7.8 or 8.0 for what seems to be no reason. I was wondering if useing buffers is the best way to maintain PH or is there a possible issue with my equipment setup. What kind of buffer do you use? I use a bottle called "PH UP" is there something better out there?

 

[laddy]

You'll want to consider the time of day you test for pH--it'll effect your readings and could explain why you are seeing a variance in tests. Also, you assume that your readings are accurate each and every time you run a test. To insure accuracy you'll want to clean after/before each test you run.
pH Up is mearly sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) in liquid form. Stop using it, it only addresses the symptoms and not the cause of your fluctuations. Go out and buy an ALK test kit and start testing for that.

 

[pensky]

I bought a calcium test and just used it for the first time and the calcium seems good at 400ppm. I will get an alk test soon, but what should I do for now just a water change and wait it out I know 8.0 is not that horrible.

 

[ophiura]

8.0 is not bad. Watch that the circulation in your tank is always running properly, including skimmer, filters etc and not getting clogged. But definitely get an alkalinity test.