pH and Alkalinity question

[jkim047]

Potentially stupid question. I understand that pH and alkalinity are related, but do I need a dedicated pH tester or will something like the Hanna alk tester be sufficient? As a follow up, when should I start testing pH and alk?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

You cannot get one from the other without more info that you will not have (CO2 levels in the water).

Alk testing is very important. pH testing is secondary.

I discuss the relationships here:

Chemistry And The Aquarium: The Relationship Between Alkalinity And pH

Randy answers many questions in this complex relationship.

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