msbabb

Just wondering...How are you testing (what test or brand)

kaze88

Hi i've read the thread but still have some questions.
My ph has always been 7.0 since i use Seachem's Neutral Regulator and today the guy at my LFS told me i need a buffer because my water is soft, so he sold me Seachem's Alkaline Buffer. I measured and mixed both chemicals into a bucket and tested the ph and its not even on the chart.. its an aqua colour. I have no idea how these chemicals interact with each other, but the ph is definitely not 7.0. Is this safe to put in the aquarium? im guessing no? sorry i've never used a buffer before

sirdarksol

No. The neutral regulator has a buffer in it, I believe. The Alkaline buffer is made to raise the pH.

kaze88

can the alkaline buffer be used safely to raise mineral levels without changing the PH?

thanks, sirdarksol

sirdarksol

Nope, the alkaline buffer is made to raise the pH and the mineral levels.

bryan87

API. it is less than 6 months old.

David593

Im with byan, my tap water is around 8-ish. My tank has only a large peice of driftwood (the tank is 55g) and the water is reading at 6.0 or lower since 6.0 is the lowest. Its really weird and has me slightly concerned as the why the ph dropped so much. I have the same issues with my ten gal. it has ph of 6.4 but it only have like 1 java fern and some ornaments, even though my tap is around 7...

Can my driftwood really be bringing it this low? (it was boiled)

bryan87

i am guessing so. i took mine out becuase it was covered in a white fuss. i boiled it to get rid of it. did a 100% water change because all my fish died. i am starting over. i think if you are using driftwood you need to off set it with a peice of limestone or something that will raise th ph.