Fixing the pH in an Aquarium

Finding the ideal pH balance in your aquarium's water is the key to your fish having a long and healthy life. Too low, and the water can become alkaline; too high, and it can become acidic. Numerous factors can contribute to changes in your water level, such as an increase in ammonia (usually resulting from the presence of dead or decaying marine life, fish food or plants). You should test your aquarium water weekly and make the necessary adjustments to keep the pH level stable.

  1. Partial Water Change

    • To properly maintain your aquarium, you should perform a slight water change every week. The typical weekly water change is about 10 percent and entails removing the water and replacing it with the same amount of water. The replacement water is conditioned and is completely free of any contaminants. For a pH issue in your fish tank, whether too high or too low, increasing the water change amount can be a quick solution. Increase the amount of the water change to about 30 percent, then check to see if your pH level has stabilized.

    Chemical Correction

    • There are a number of products that you can use that can quickly alter your fish tank water's pH levels. You can use commercial pH regulators to raise or lower your pH levels. Products found in your kitchen pantry can also work to change your fish tank's pH levels as well. Use a small amount of baking soda to raise the aquarium's pH level or an acid, such as vinegar or lemon juice, to lower the pH level. These are only temporary changes and you should look to find out what is causing the fluctuation in pH level.

    Change the Substrate

    • Problems related to your fish tank's pH levels are often internal issues. For a recurring low pH problem that does not seem to be staying corrected with water changes or chemical correction, consider changing the substrate in the tank. Adding some crushed coral or limestone to your current substrate mix will increase the pH level gradually over a few days. Make the substrate additions in small amounts, evenly mixed on the bottom of the aquarium, until you reach the desired pH level. Adding seashells as decoration to your fish tank will also have the same effect.

    Subtraction by Addition

    • If your fish tank's pH levels are running too low and were not corrected by the water change and chemical corrections, consider adding driftwood decorations to your aquarium. Driftwood will lower you tank's water pH level gradually. You could also add peat moss, either to your tank's substrate or filtration system, to lower the pH levels. Again, all changes should be made slowly so you don't over correct and have to add something to lower the pH levels again.