a big ph jump either way will stress the plant but I can't really help you with ph in hydro as I've only ever done soil. Someone ealier suggested a fine dolomite lime and vinegar but that only works in soil . But, i dont think ph is the problem , 18 inches above the canopy is still very low for delicate seedlings, move it up to 22 inches and monitor the difference. Hps generally isnt as good for seedling and veg as cfl's as the hot gaze of hps can damage them.
extractor fans are the best for heat control as well as fans in general but you said that your temps 79-83? thats not too hot at all, put your arm under the hps where the seedling are and leave it there for 4 minutes, if your arms getting pretty hot then you'll b able to see how your seedlings must be feeling.
hope that helps and post me back any more questions you hav