Alk vs ph

[Silverni2]

Is my alk a direct representation of what my ph states? Meaning if my ph is 8.1 according to my monitor would that mean my alk is in a safe range? If my ph monitor shows a lower number like 7.8 does that mean my alk is low or lower than when the ph monitor showed 8.1? Hope that makes sense
thx

 

[fjpod]

Probably...but other things can be awry giving you a false impression.

 

[Dre]

Is my alk a direct representation of what my ph states? Meaning if my ph is 8.1 according to my monitor would that mean my alk is in a safe range? If my ph monitor shows a lower number like 7.8 does that mean my alk is low or lower than when the ph monitor showed 8.1? Hope that makes sense
thx

If that was the case we wouldn't need a specific test for alk.

 

[NewfiDog]

I think this is a yes and no answer. If your alk is in range it will help to buffer your PH, keeping it more stable. A low PH can be a sign of low alk but if your PH is in range your alk still can be low. You still need to check your alk and kepping it at proper levels will make keeping your ph easier but you cant use your PH as your alk guide.

 

[fishman1069]

+1 I'll just add that IMO alk is more important to maintain than your pH. Meaning, when you see your ph is at say 7.9, its not as bad as your alk dropping to 6 dkh. Alk plays a huge important role to the chemistry in our tanks and shoud be checked regularly

 

[Silverni2]

Thx guys