My pH is always on the lower side

[kingkapoor]

I have had 3 tanks so far, all are well established. 0 Ammonia, 0 nitrites, 0 nitrites. but my ph hovers around 7.8-8.0.

Even with buffer it stays at that level, not sure what to do. How bad is this for my fish

 

[Mastiffsrule]

I would say not bad, could be better but again not bad.

I don’t think my tank has ever broken 8.0 in at least 6 or 7 years. Also depends on what you are trying to keep though.

You can always try to bu,p up aeration or reverse photo period

 

[AdamNC]

Open a window. There may be too much Co2 in your house, especially if it’s a newer house that seals up tight.

 

[saltyhog]

Personally I wouldn't worry about it. The pH in the ocean is usually around 7.8. Chasing pH with buffers can be not only exasperating and futile, it can be harmful to your tank.

 

[SPR1968]

Your fine at those levels, don’t worry about it. Unless your very confident on what your doing don’t start adding anything to increase the pH as you could do more harm and whatever you do, don’t chase the numbers or you will go mad (I know!)

Mine is around 7.7-8 most of the time especially in winter when the windows and doors are shut.

Also your own breathing affects it. When I go away, the ph increases and then drops back down when I get home. It’s fascinating to see it on the Apex pH monitor. I am officially bad for my tank! Lol.

And that apart from messing with it all the time.....

 

[UCF Alum]

I had the same problem. I plumbed my skimmer outside and pH went from 7.7 to 8.1 in a matter of days. Don’t use buffer. It effects alkalinity and is only short term solution.

And +1 on SPR’s quote above.