Strange Co2 Numbers

[garyp75]

Hi,

I'm using pressurised co2 on a 96l planted tank, got 3x36w Interpet CF tubes in the hood too, so plenty of light. (not sure all of the light is getting through as the water is fairly yellow from the mopani atm)

PH is 6.7 and KH is 10 giving me a CO2 of 59.9ppm. Does this sound correct? I'm sure it can't be because that's way too high but I'm not seeing any pearling on the plants at all, surely there would be some if it was genuinely that high?

My best guess is that perhaps the 3 peices of mopani that are in there are also increasing the acidity and screwing with the numbers. Plus maybe even the tetra complete substrate under the sand as that has peat in it too. Does this sound feasable? If so how on earth do I calculate my real CO2 levels?

ps. also 1 week into EI.

Thanks in advance for advice.

 

[silvery37]

To accurately measure CO2 you need to use a drop checker. Go here for a good explanation of how they work http/www.barrreport.com/estimative-index...rs-why-how.html You are correct that other items in the tank can effect PH.

 

[garyp75]

To accurately measure CO2 you need to use a drop checker. Go here for a good explanation of how they work http/www.barrreport.com/estimative-index...rs-why-how.html You are correct that other items in the tank can effect PH.

Perfect thanks! That makes a lot of sense now. i have drop checker already but its just using my tank water (as per instructions) so I figured it was just doing the same calculation as I was. Never thought to use 'other' water with 'known' KH, brilliant!

 

[garyp75]

To accurately measure CO2 you need to use a drop checker. Go here for a good explanation of how they work http/www.barrreport.com/estimative-index...rs-why-how.html You are correct that other items in the tank can effect PH.

Perfect thanks! That makes a lot of sense now. i have drop checker already but its just using my tank water (as per instructions) so I figured it was just doing the same calculation as I was. Never thought to use 'other' water with 'known' KH, brilliant!

Hmmm....I've got some Milwaukee PH 7.01 buffer sachets here, anyone no if that's just basically distilled water?