Reverse Osmosis question?

Question

My water pH is quite high (roughly 8.5-9.0), I have been considering a reverse osmosis unit to lower it. Would an r/o unit solve my problem? I would like to lower it for a future planted setup. I have read that plants would prefer a lower pH such as 7.0 - 7.5, do these numbers matter for plants? Thanks for the help!

Answer 1

It depends on the plants. More sensitive plants require a lower pH to extract CO2 from the water. In hard, alkaline water, they are basically starved of their CO2. RO will certainly help soften your water, making it better for plants. Also, consider adding peat fiber to your filtration unit. It will naturally and gradually soften the water, making perfect for plants, and South American or Asian fish. Contact me if you have any questions.

Soop Nazi

EDIT: Adding baking soda to the tank would not nearly be strong enough to alter your pH unless you took the whole package, and secondly, it would RAISE your pH, not lower it.

EDIT 2: The last thing you want to do to alter your pH is add chemicals. Chemicals result in rapidly fluctuating parameters that are very harmful to fish, and can damage plants as well. Having a slightly high pH is no problem, so you should shoot for a pH of 7.5 or less.

Answer 2

RO water does not lower the PH levels, instead it softens the water allowing you to easily adjust the PH level by using a weak acid. There are few brands out there such as Wardley's PH. RO unit's found at a pet store can be expensive, so if you are serious about getting one, try ebay and its cheaper compare to local water supply store, pet store, home depot, and so on.

Answer 3

bakeing soda.....and yes they do...