IO reef mix lowers pH.

[jcdeng]

Tested with hanna device, RO/DI water has a higher pH than after I mix in the salt. How to bring the pH up before I put the water in tank? I read that aeration can bring the pH back up? If I run air pump and an air stone in the mixed water for couple of hours will that help? please advise

thanks

 

[JimmyR1rider]

You should mix your water at least the night before you're going to use it. That will give it proper time to mix, have proper gas exchange and oxygenate.

 

[jcdeng]

so oxygenation will bring the pH back up? I have no problem letting the water sit, I usually mix water in a 20 gallon container, but I use a powerhead to move the water and mix the salt (and heater in there of course). Just wondering if I should replace the powerhead with air pump and stone

 

[JimmyR1rider]

You should be fine with the powerhead- I aim mine to where there's almot like a geyser so there's lots of splashing and movement. I also had PH issues with reef crystals and had used Kent buffer to bring it up- I have been using ESV for 2 years now and my ph is always on spot. It mixes pretty much at 8.2.

Good luck

 

[jcdeng]

oh, nice, I am def. switching to ESV then, luckily I didn't buy too much reef crystals. will the Kent buffer affect Ca and alkalinity ?