How to Maintain pH in a Reef Aquarium

In order to maintain a healthy reef aquarium, you need to constantly monitor the pH level of the tank. Reef tanks are very sensitive to pH. For the inhabitants to remain healthy, a constant pH level in the acceptable range of 8.0-8.4 must be maintained. If the pH level falls outside of the norms, you have several options to correct it. Plan on testing at least once a week.

Things You'll Need

  • PH test kit
  • Baking soda
  • Commercial pH increaser product
  • Commercial pH reduction product
  • Vinegar
  • Lemon juice
  • Kalkwasser-lime water
  • Dosing system
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Instructions

    • 1

      Follow the test kit instructions to test a sample of the aquarium water. If the pH registers as to low, you can add commercial pH increaser to the water. If you do not have commercial pH increaser available, you can add baking soda to the water. Add the baking slowly a little at a time, and retest after each dose.

    • 2

      If the test indicates that the pH is too high, add a commercial pH reduction product. If you do not have a commercial reducer available, then vinegar or lemon juice make adequate acidic substitutes. Simply add a small amount to the water and retest.

    • 3

      Removing a portion of the water and replacing it with fresh saltwater is another way to restore the pH of the reef aquarium. Also, make sure that the tank is getting adequate water circulation. A water circulation level of 15 times the tank volume will ensure a well-balanced tank.

    • 4

      Another way to prevent drops in pH is to skim uneaten food and fish waste from the tank on a regular basis.

    • 5

      Adding Kalkwasser or limewater to the tank will increase the pH level. Be careful to add the Kalkwasser slowly via a dosing system. This is because Kalkwasser has an extremely high pH. Too much Kalkwasser added too quickly will harm the tank.

    • 6

      Also, make sure you do not have too many fish for your tank. If you have more fish then your tank load recommends, the tank suffers from oxygen loss, which leads to lower pH levels. A standard rule of thumb in a reef tank is one fish per every 10 gallons of water.

    • 7

      The proper sand in your tank makes all the difference to the pH level. Using freshwater-based materials will be detrimental to the pH levels in the tank. Make sure the sand you use is for reef tanks, not fresh water.