How often do you / should you calibrate your ph probes?

[cwegescheide]

I've got a reef controller and have been seeing my PH slowly climb from 8.3 to over 8.5 at the highest point of the day (around 4pm or so)

Do PH probes tend to drift and need to be re-calibrated every so often?

I did dose kalk for a while in my top off but havent been using any in probably the past month. I've got a ca reactor for my calcium and alk supplementation.

Thanks,
Chris

[B16A2NER]

I calibrate mine every 6 months. It doesn't go off by much in that time either.

[B16A2NER]

Thats actually natural for yor pH to peak at mid day and drop to its lowest point at night. Thats why its recommended to dose your kalk or other pH products at night

[cwegescheide]

Thats actually natural for yor pH to peak at mid day and drop to its lowest point at night. Thats why its recommended to dose your kalk or other pH products at night

Yes, I understood that part but it seems that my PH is drifting a little higher over time. Like the last month or so. I understand the PH raises as photosynthesis occurs thru the day.

Thanks for the reply,
Chris

[TwistedTiger]

Originally posted by cwegescheide
Do PH probes tend to drift and need to be re-calibrated every so often?

I think it greatly depends on the instrument used. I have a PH pen that needs at least monthly calibration and drifts much higher in that time. I also have a Reef Fanatic controller that needs much much less calibration and drifts a much smaller amount over a much longer period of time. Like most reef gear get to know your equipement and over time you find it isn't accurate enough for your needs upgrade. JMO