Buffering

[HayleYoyo]

I have been trying to add buffer to my water.

I out of the tap I get 2dkh with a ph of 7.4. I'm hoping to get it to 4dkh with a ph of 7.

Anyone have any luck?

[Filet_O_Fish]

A substrate with peat or some kinds of volcanic particulates usually buffers the PH lower. Fluval Stratum and Aquasoil lower PH. Ive seen a few bags of substrate at Big Als that say they lower PH. I usually use crushed coral to increase KH in my tanks. A KH upper fluid can also be used. Doing this will shorten the lifespan of the buffering substrate though.

We could help you further if you state what it is you are trying to house.

[Filet_O_Fish]

Totally forgot to mention that you could also use reverse osmosis (RO) water. It typically comes out neutral. You can then manually add exactly the amount of GH amendment to get the KH exactly where you need it.

[HayleYoyo]

Since the snow fall, my water's ph is coming out at 6.8, and almost no DKH.


I'm worried about adding such acidic water to my aquarium. I've been added Buffer, which raises my water.

I'm curious what everyone else is doing

[Filet_O_Fish]

In a pinch you can add some Sodium Bicarbonate. Itll increase PH and help with your other values.

You can also go for the PH, GH, and KH upper fluids/powders or crushed/powdered coral (slower method). I have also used boiled then cooked egg shells.