How to Lower the Water pH for Fish

Maintaining the right pH is important for fish to thrive in an aquarium. A high pH level can kill fish. A low pH level is also necessary for nitrifying bacteria to live in. One way to reduce pH level is to filter the water using peat moss. Peat moss is available at most garden centers and department stores.

Things You'll Need

  • Large Pot
  • 3 gallons Water
  • 1 gallon Peat moss
  • 5 gallon bucket
  • Aquarium aerator
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill the pot with the water and set in on the stove on high heat.

    • 2

      Add the peat moss to the water when it starts to boil. Stir it for five minutes.

    • 3

      Remove the pot from the stove and strain the water through a porous pouch like a pillowcase. Store the boiled water in a bucket. Place the pillowcase in the bucket.

    • 4

      Add tap water to the boiled water so that the bucket is filled.

    • 5

      Insert the air tube of the aerator in the bucket and bubble air through the bucket. Aerate it for a week.

    • 6

      Remove the peat moss and the aerator and transfer the peat moss water into the aquarium.