Buffer Mix 20#

Product Information

Buffer Mix – Buffer mix is essential for bacterial performance and is used to increase the KH (true alkalinity or buffering capacity) levels in the water.  Bacteria require a level of 80 ppm or higher of KH to create an optimum environment, and will actively consume KH while breaking down dead organic materials.  Both municipal water and well water mill most likely need buffer added.  While 80 ppm is the minimum required level, we recommend 120 ppm to 180 ppm to ensure optimum bacterial performance.  Buffer mix will also adjust the pH of water to a level of ~ 8.4; because of this, buffer should not be added more often than three times a day (morning, noon, and evening).  Initially – you may have to add the prescribed dosage (3 times per day - daily for 10 days in a row – this is to bring the KH up to the desired level.  Regular maintenance is one dose 1x/week or as needed to keep KH levels between 120 and 180 ppm. 

• Use to raise your water hardness (GH – as CaCl)

   

• Stabilize pH (buffer – as Na₂(CO₂))

   

• Microbe supplement (KH – as CaCO₃)

   

• Use 1 tablespoon per 200 gallons until KH is above 120 ppm

   

• PH can be adjusted “AFTER” desired KH level is obtained

   

Carbonate Hardness – (KH) – also known as “alkalinity”, “total alkalinity”, or even “buffering capacity”.  Carbonate Hardness is the measure of carbonate (HCO₃) and bicarbonate (CO₃^2-) ion concentrations dissolved in water.  These minerals are present in municipal, well and bottled spring water. KH (carbonate hardness) is NOT the same as GH (General Hardness). The level of KH depends on the source of the water, and treatment process it has undergone.  When KH levels are where they need to be, it helps stabilize the pH – it will stay at a given level more consistently.  KH is also critical for our filters (“biological” filters to work correctly – Beneficial Bacteria consume 7 pounds of carbonates for every pound of debris they breakdown).  Desired Carbonate Hardness is 120 to 180 ppm.  Some municipal water systems have KH around 30 ppm, which means the water is very soft. Buffer mix helps bring this level higher and enhances filtration.

*(Algaecides like Algae-fix and Fountec will not work unless the Carbonate Hardness is near 100PPM.)

Price: $70.00

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