Raising Ph With Baking Soda

[el_vulture619]

I recall reading a post where Mr. Monks said you could raise PH or alkalinity with baking soda. I notice that the PH in my tanks have been 7.4-8.0, a little low I think. If baking soda can be used what is the recommended amount per gallon?

Whats the deal with pickling lime? Witch is better?

 

[nmonks]

I don't think using baking soda alone is the best idea. Instead, make up some Malawi salt mix so you get a better balance of hardness and carbonate hardness, thus:

Per 5 gallons/20 litres
1 teaspoon baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
1 tablespoon Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate)
1 teaspoon marine salt mix (sodium chloride + trace elements)

The teaspoon of salt per 5 gallons will have no measurable impact on salinity.

Cheers, Neale

 

[el_vulture619]

ok, will try it with the Epsom salt.... any thoughts on the pickling lime?

 

[nmonks]

Only one: why?

Cheers, Neale

any thoughts on the pickling lime?

 

[el_vulture619]

To raise the PH and possibly calcium levels, I know its mostly used in SW but I think that this could help also. Maybe with less mixing and no elevated salt levels.