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Finally getting a handle on it!

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by B-Rad, Dec 24, 2010.

  1. Dec 24, 2010 #1
    B-Rad

    B-Rad Inactive User

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    OK so I've been fighting allege problems and a low PH for over a year now. My test show 0 Phos & 0 Nitrates, yet I still have allege problems. I have removed 98% of my substrate and have built a new sump.
    Then started to focus on getting my PH up and try to keep it around 8.1 to 8.3 From 7.6 to 7.9. After doing tons of reading, and some small experiments I think my tank has a high concentration of Carbon Dioxide in the water. I believe that my house has a higher level then the norm due to it being new and all air tight. So I ran an air line from out side down to my skimmer and over night my PH has stabilized and risen to 8.19.[​IMG][​IMG][​IMG].
     
  2. Dec 24, 2010 #2
    FishBrain New London

    FishBrain Expert Reefkeeper

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    Yep the old outside air line trick works like a charm. I would advise rigging up a little carbon filter for the outside end so you don't pull any contaminants into your tank.
     
  3. Dec 24, 2010 #3
    AJ

    AJ Inactive User

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    Interesting post. Thanks Rick. It's good that you've been able to get this isolated after so much time.

    --AJ
     
  4. Dec 24, 2010 #4
    B-Rad

    B-Rad Inactive User

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    Yes I put an air breather on the end of the tubing and ran the tubing out away from the house. It runs right under my deck so I don't have to worry about anyone or thing messing with it.
    I guess I just wanted people to look out side the box some times if things just don't add up!
     
  5. Dec 24, 2010 #5
    FishBrain New London

    FishBrain Expert Reefkeeper

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    Hows the nps project comeing along Rick? Do you have your feeding rig going?
     
  6. Dec 26, 2010 #6
    B-Rad

    B-Rad Inactive User

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    Its getting closer, this PH deal has been one of the big hold ups.
    I need to install another sprinkler valve as one just doesn't flow enough water.
     
  7. Dec 26, 2010 #7
    Sponge Marshalltown, IA

    Sponge Expert Reefkeeper Vendor

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    6 weeks ago we put in a new AC and Furnace.  Because I was having problems with PH due to high carbon dioxide levels throughout our home, we also put in a HRV (heat recovery ventilator).  My PH went from a low of 7.58 up to 8.4[​IMG]  Our home is super air tight thus the major reason for the high carbon dioxide level and low PH.  As it was not possible to run outside air into our home through a window/wall, the next option for us was the HRV....money well spent[​IMG]  Glad to hear that you're getting your tank up to snuff Rick[​IMG]
     
  8. Dec 27, 2010 #8
    bobsfish

    bobsfish Experienced Reefkeeper

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    Thanks for post Rick. Now that your pH has bumped up, we know that you can control that with the fresh air intake. Keep this post going for awhile as you monitor the algae content. I've got a similar issue - not out of control, but a nuisance.
     

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