Using acid buffers?

Question

We have a problem at work with our tanks pH. It is higher than 8.4. Every time pH down is added, it does nothing as the alkalinity if off the charts as well. The water is also very hard. However, the pH of the tap water is 7.2, so I don't know why it keeps going so high.

I was looking at the acid buffer made by Seachem. It converts carbonate alkalinity into available CO2. Since there re no plants, will it hurt the fish (We can't add plants to it)? Or will the CO2 dissipate quickly with the power heads in all the tanks? The tank is 220 gallons, divided into 18 tanks (11 gallons each) with a power head, and a 20 gallon sump.

What do you think?

There are a lot dying from it.

Answer 1

What is going to hurt your fish more is shifting this PH. You've already got a population in that tank, and noone's dying from it so why bother it? PH shifts should be done prior to populations. I understand the concern, it makes sense to me, but unless you are seeing deaths from this, don't mess with it. You probably have some very hard water which is acting to rasie that ph from tap. In actuallty too, consider this before buying chemical treatments. As tanks age, and settle in, once the nitrogen cycle is well mature, carbonic and nitric acid will be present and temporary in the tank during the process. This will help to lower that buffer you have. Over time, it's going to lower on its own.

JV

Answer 2

It would dissipate quickly, but that will not change the pH in the long run. Use organic materials like driftwood and peat moss to lower the pH and remove any calciferous objects like limestone, shells, coral (crushed coral is intended for gravel), or dolomite. All these will be a gradual change in pH instead of a rapid, chemical caused change which can be harmful to fish. Email me if you have any questions.

Nosoop4u

Answer 3

stop being so cut, shat plaz?