Seachem Alkaline Buffer

Price range: $29.95 through $52.95

SKU: N/A

Categories: Aquarium Chemicals, Uncategorized

Description
Additional information

Alkaline Buffer™ is a non-phosphate buffer designed to raise pH and alkalinity (KH) when used alongside Acid Buffer™. Like its counterpart, it is specially formulated for planted aquariums and tanks with very hard water, avoiding the algae blooms and cloudiness associated with phosphate-based buffers. Alkaline Buffer™ raises pH and buffers between 7.2 and 8.5, gently enhancing the freshwater environment without harsh swings or instability.

Key Features & Benefits

Non-phosphate formula — no risk of algae blooms or cloudiness
Raises and buffers pH between 7.2 and 8.5
Increases carbonate alkalinity (KH) safely and gradually
Ideal for planted aquariums and hard water setups
Works in tandem with Acid Buffer™ for precise pH targeting
Gentle, safe, and suitable for all freshwater aquariums
Available in a range of sizes to suit any tank volume

Specifications

Specification	Details
Dosage	1 teaspoon (6 g) per 80 L daily until desired pH is reached
pH Buffering Range	7.2 – 8.5 (when used with Acid Buffer™)
Alkalinity Increase per Dose	Raises alkalinity by approximately 1 meq/L (2.8 dKH)
Sizes Available	70 g, 300 g, 600 g, 1.2 kg
Phosphate Content	None — phosphate-free formula
Best Used With	Acid Buffer™

The Science

Alkaline Buffer™ works by increasing the carbonate alkalinity (KH) of your aquarium water, which in turn raises and stabilises pH. KH acts as the water’s natural resistance to pH change, so building it up gradually creates a more stable environment for fish, plants, and invertebrates. Because Alkaline Buffer™ contains no phosphates, it carries none of the risks associated with phosphate-based products, such as triggering algae growth or causing cloudiness in the water column.

For precise pH control, use Alkaline Buffer™ together with Acid Buffer™ and refer to the ratio chart below. This combination gives you full control over both pH and KH, making it particularly useful in planted tanks or any setup where stable, specific water parameters are essential.

pH Targeting Ratio Chart

When using Alkaline Buffer™ and Acid 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

For precise dosing, use the Seachem Digital Spoon Scale. Dose 1 teaspoon (6 g) per 80 L daily until your target pH is reached. To achieve a gradual, controlled pH rise, particularly if your water is soft or poorly buffered, always pair Alkaline Buffer™ with Acid Buffer™ and consult the ratio chart above for accurate results. Avoid large single doses, as sudden pH shifts can stress aquatic life.

Heads-up

Sudden or large pH increases can stress or harm fish and invertebrates. Always raise pH gradually over several days rather than all at once. In soft or unbuffered water, Alkaline Buffer™ works best when combined with Acid Buffer™ for stable, predictable results. Monitor pH and KH regularly throughout the adjustment process to avoid overshooting your target. You can find our range of testing kits here.