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What is pH?
In simple terms the pH value indicates if the water mass is acid,
neutral or alkaline. pH is determined on a scale of 0-14. Under 7.0 is
acid, 7.0 is neutral and above 7.0 is considered alkaline.
What determines my tank's pH?
The biggest factor affecting pH is the water that is used to set
up the tank and do water changes. The pH of water varies by location.
Some other factors can change a tank's pH without you trying or
knowing.
1. Nitrite cycle. As harmful
ammonia is converted into nitrates by "good" bacteria, nitric acid is
produced which can lower a tank's pH.
2. If your tank has a low level of
aeration excess carbon dioxide will lower your pH value.
3. Certain aquarium chemicals can lower
or raise the pH of a tank.
Why should I know what my pH is?
Even though most aquarium fish will tolerate a wide range of pH
(6.0 - 8.0) without dying, pH will affect the toxicity of the ammonia
in your aquarium. When your pH is above 7.0 it combines with ammonia
to make a very harmful combination. When your pH is below 7.0 (acid)
your ammonia's toxicity is reduced.
How do I test my pH?
We sell inexpensive pH test kits that are easy to use and read. If
you have trouble determining the results of your pH test, bring in
your water and we will test it for you at no charge.
Should I adjust my pH?
Yes and no. It is safer to have your tank's pH below 7.0 because it
lessens the toxicity of ammonia. In some areas, including Marion and
surrounding cities, it is difficult to keep your pH below 7.0 because
of local water conditions. However, some choose not to adjust their pH and work
to keep ammonia low, feeling this is easier than trying to manage pH.
Another reason some people decide not to adjust their pH is because
fish can not tolerate a drastic fluctuation in pH. So, unless your
pH is at a dangerous level in many cases it's best to just leave it
alone.
Also, remember that different fish
prefer different pH levels. For example Discus prefer low pH (6.0)
whereas African cichlids prefer a high pH (8.2). Research the type of
fish you want to have in your aquarium and keep fish that can tolerate
the same level.
How do I adjust my pH?
If your pH is above 7.0 and you want to lower it:
1. You will need a pH test kit and pH
adjusting chemicals. Follow instructions for whatever
type of adjusting chemicals you buy.
2. pH may bounce up and down. After
changing your pH, retest it daily for 3 days. If it starts to change
add more pH adjuster. Eventually the pH will stabilize until your next
water change.
Remember, an unstable pH level will stress your fish. If you are
having trouble maintaining a consistent pH level you may need to
either purchase filtered water (such as R.O. water) or keep fish
that prefer or can adjust to your conditions.
3. When doing a water change you should
adjust the pH of your tap water before refilling your tank.
4. If you have very hard water, it may
be difficult to adjust your pH level. In some situations it may be
best to purchase R.O. (Reverse Osmosis) water than use water from your
tap.
If you
want to raise your pH
Test your tap water. If your tap water is above 7.0, do a water
change as the fresh tap water will raise the pH in the tank.
