How to control the PH levels in a tank?

Question

I was just curious, since I am getting a new tank, and later fish that need filters. I was just curious as to what you need to buy, and how much to use, in order to keep my PH levels at a good level for my fish( I know the levels vary), Also, is it a hassle?
Thanks.

Answer 1

Trying to change pH is not recommended unless you really know what you're doing. Most fish are better off at a steady pH that is not optimal vs changing the pH chemically. To lower pH, add peat or driftwood, to raise pH add crushed coral or limestone. Changing pH in this manner is less likely to cause pH swings like changing them chemically will.

Answer 2

There are different ways of changing the PH, but not too many are stable, and stability is most important. Additives sold in the pet store tend to be unreliable because they don't change the reason why the water was high or low in the first place and it is a temperary adjustment.

If you have high PH water it's most likely because you have a higher mineral content in the water. If you lower it with chemicals then the minerals will drive the PH back up in time and the result is fluctuating ph, very stressful on the fish. The only reliable way to handle this is to use a Reverse Osmosis filter, since it removes these minerals. You can raise a low PH by adding the minerals into the water through the use of salts, easy, but you need to do it with every water change.

In the end most fish are adaptable to a wide range of PH and the water should only be adjusted for the most delicate species, those that should be avoided by beginners anyway. Also keep in mind that most of the fish we purchase have been bred in tap water and are already used to it. If you truly want a successful tank, don't overcomplicate the process, as more complication means more can go wrong.

Answer 3

Purchase a pH indicator and collect some water from your tank.Add a drop of pH indicator to your tank and take note of the colour.There is a note telling you how acidic or alkaline your water is.If too acidic, buy a pH up and alkaline pH down.

Answer 4

you can get ph kits. it's no hassle, you take some tank water into a little mini bottle (should be prvided with kit) add a couple of drops of the testing liquid, then shake it and compare the colour to a tab which will tell you if your ph is too high or too low, then add recommended amount of necessary stuff (ph increaser or reducer) or if the ph is fine, leave it. Instructions will come with ph kit though. good luck

Answer 5

There are several things you can get to level it to 6.5 7.0 7.5 and 8.0 the correct PH is 7.0 for freshwater petco and petsmart recommend (Jungle Correct pH Tank Buddies) use it every 24 hours as needed until the correct ph, every tablet is for 10 gallons and I just break it in half for my 5 gal, you can do that same also.

I also suggest Prime, it removes Chlorine,Chloramine,Ammonia, it detoxifies Nitrite & Nitrate, also provides slime coat.
For alot of ammonia, & while cycling, petco recommends Ammo lock but prime will help alot too.

Answer 6

the pet shop you buy your tank from will help you get everthing you need Ph is very important