Buffer level

[GP]

Hey, I tested my water and it says that the alkalinity level, or the buffer level is low. . Is this serious and what do I need to do to fix it? Note I haven't put my fish in yet and my cycle is running for about 5 days.

 

[cutechic]

This means that the pH may be unstable (that is, it will flucuate). But IMO, a low buffering level is not a problem unless you do very large water changes. I would not add anything to change it, just leave it as it is. If you're worried, do a water change or two before adding fish, and test the pH before and after the changes. I think you'll find that the pH does not change, or not significantly so.

My hardness is 3-4 degrees, and I have not had any problem with a flucuating pH.

 

[GP]

I get my fish tomorrow, so should I do a water change tonight? I've had the tank running for about 5 days now, and I know you guys will hate me because I'm rushing things...

 

[Crookster]

Don't put too many fish in, it won't be cycled yet.

I try and keep my ph at about 7 (blue). It does go down over the course of a couple of months. I've just started using some crushed oyster shells in a stocking and putting them inside my filter. This brings the PH up naturaly and it takes longer to go back down. HTH.

 

[tstenback]

What fish are you getting?

 

[sinistral]

I agree with cutechic, I wouldn't worry too much about low carbonate hardness at this particular point as long as you get hardy fish and you keep an eye on the pH.

Also, along with Crookster's post, I am curious about what you mean when you say you've been cycling the tank for 5 days now? Are you doing a fishless cycle, or are you planning to add fish to start the cycling process...?

 

[Bol]

Exactly how low is it? As in, how many ppm (or mg/L) or degrees?

 

[tstenback]

I get my fish tomorrow, so should I do a water change tonight? I've had the tank running for about 5 days now, and I know you guys will hate me because I'm rushing things...

"Hate" is such a strong word. I disagree with what you about to do but that is your choice. I don't know much about puffers, which is what i believe you are going to put in the tank, but i know that they will not handle the cycling of the tank very well and you may be very disappointed in the end result.

The fish are the ones that have no choice.

It would take so little time for you to do a fishless cycle and a source for ammonia shouldnt be a problem for you to get. So why do you insist on putting these fish through this when you know about the alternatives and know that they will probably not survive.

I truly wish that you change your mind and ask the LFS to keep the fish until you get your tank cycled. If you choose to continue the only thing i can say is WATER CHANGES.

 

[GP]

OK guys, I haven't gotten my fish yet, so don't worry, and I'm only getting two, so you can breathe now... I just have another problem, I'll post it in oddball and I will need lots of fast replys...