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Seachem Acid Buffer
Price range: $10.95 through $56.95
Acid Buffer™ is a non-phosphate buffer designed to lower and stabilise pH when used alongside Alkaline Buffer™. Specially formulated for planted aquariums or tanks with very hard water, it avoids the algae blooms and cloudiness that phosphate-based buffers can cause. Acid Buffer™ effectively lowers pH and buffers between 6.0 and 8.0, and as it works, it converts carbonate alkalinity (KH) into available CO₂, a natural bonus for your aquatic plants.
Key Features & Benefits
- Non-phosphate formula — no risk of algae blooms or cloudiness
- Lowers and buffers pH between 6.0 and 8.0
- Ideal for planted aquariums and hard water setups
- Converts carbonate alkalinity (KH) into available CO₂ for plants
- Works in tandem with Alkaline Buffer™ for precise pH targeting
- Available in a range of sizes to suit any tank volume
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dosage | ¼ teaspoon (2 g) per 80 L daily until desired pH is reached |
| pH Buffering Range | 6.0 – 8.0 (when used with Alkaline Buffer™) |
| Alkalinity Reduction per Dose | Lowers alkalinity by approximately 0.2 meq/L (0.6 dKH) |
| Sizes Available | 70 g, 300 g, 600 g, 1.2 kg |
| Phosphate Content | None. This is a phosphate-free formula. |
| Best Used With | Alkaline Buffer™ |
The Science
Acid Buffer™ works by targeting carbonate alkalinity (KH), the primary force that resists pH changes in your aquarium. As it neutralises KH, it releases CO₂ into the water column, a welcome side effect for planted tanks that benefit from elevated carbon dioxide levels. Because it contains no phosphates, it won’t contribute to nuisance algae or cause the milky cloudiness sometimes associated with phosphate-based buffers. For best results and precise control, use Acid Buffer™ together with Alkaline Buffer™ and refer to the ratio chart below to dial in your target pH.
pH Targeting Ratio Chart
When using Acid Buffer™ and Alkaline Buffer™ together to reach a specific pH, follow these steps:
- Determine the amount of Alkaline Buffer™ required for your tank volume based on your desired alkalinity (KH).
- Divide that amount by the ratio in the middle column of the chart to calculate the correct quantity of Acid Buffer™.
| Acid Buffer™ | Alkaline Buffer™ | Target pH |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1.3 | 6.5 |
| 1 | 2.0 | 7.0 |
| 1 | 2.5 | 7.5 |
| 1 | 4.0 | 8.0 |
Note: This chart is based on use in RO or RO/DI water. Ratios may need adjustment when using tap water.
Advice
Dose ¼ teaspoon (2 g) per 80 L daily until your target pH is reached. In very hard or highly alkaline water, larger doses may be necessary. To achieve a gradual pH shift, or if your water is soft or poorly buffered, always pair Acid Buffer™ with Alkaline Buffer™ and consult the ratio chart for accurate results.
Heads-up
Rapid or large pH swings can stress fish and invertebrates. Always adjust pH gradually over several days rather than all at once. Acid Buffer™ is not a standalone pH solution in soft water; combine it with Alkaline Buffer™ for stable, controlled results. Monitor pH and KH regularly throughout the adjustment process. You can find our full range of testing kits here.
Contact Us
Have questions about pH management or dosing for your setup? Contact our team for personalised advice tailored to your aquarium.
| Size | 70g, 300g, 600g, 1.2kg |
|---|
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