hard water

Question
Hello, We have two tanks with high ph. One 26 gallon with puffers and one 40 gallon with cichlids. Our water is pefect. When we do water changes to either, we need to add what our fish store calls "Tank Hard" It is a clear liquid. What is this? Can this made at home? like Tank buffer?

Answer
Hi David:  When you say your pH is high... what are the values... pH is ok in a range between 6.5 and 8.0 with a few exceptions.  I have never heard of a product called " tank hard." I did a google search for the product and found out that it is in fact a buffer.  I am puzzled about why the pet store would suggest this product to you... its more of a salt water product.  I would suspect that your pH is high because of the buffer.  This is a product for marine aquarium not freshwater.  The label said it was suppose to control pH but it did not mention if that meant raising it or lowering it.  Do you have well water?  What is your pH in your tap?  If you can get me a set of chemical values for both your tap water and your tank water... I might be able to help with this.  If this were my tank I would do a water change and stop adding chemicals to the tank.  The change in Ph could kill your fish... let me know the water values...dave