ph balance fresh water aquarium

Question
I have had a fresh water aquarium for about 10 months. About 2 months ago I began loosing all my fish. I can not keep the ph level under control. It continues to drop to low levels. The water is changed and cleaned weekly as directed. The county I lived in took the flouride out of our water about the same time I began having problems with my ph level and the water began to feel more softer than previous also. Not sure wheather these changes have anything to do with my unstable ph. Need any advice on how to get my ph under control.

Answer
Hey Brenda,

Flouridated water typically wont make a difference, but if you're having a hard time keeping your pH up, add pH up to the new water you're adding. Also, take out all shells, woods, and other organic matter you can (except live plants and algae). Many woods, all shells, and other organic materials can be very acidic when they break down, and will drop the pH very rapidly. Add a tiny pinch of baking soda to your filter media as well. The baking soda will raise the hardness to a safe level again. Hope all this helps! Best wishes.