cichlid ph

Question
I have an african cichlid tank and I use this powder that automatically sets the ph at 8.2 when used with aquarium salts and it works good, but I don't know how to do water changes without affecting the ph level in my tank.  Do I use the powder in the replacement water BEFORE putting it into the tank, or do I just refill the tank with water THEN adjust the ph?? Thanks.. Mike

Answer
Hi Mike:  What is the pH of your tap water?  Most cichlids do just fine between 7.0 and 8.2.  The trouble with trying to regulate pH is that it does more harm to fish to be in water that is constantly fluctuation then it does for them to be in pH that is slightly low or slightly high.  The best way to raise pH is with the use of either coral sand/gravel or with limestone.  You can add about one pound for each ten gallons of water in your tank.  This will raise the pH naturally and gradually over time and your fish will be much healthier for it.  

Water changes should be 10-20 percent each week and the new water treated with your pH elevator.  Please do not change the whole tank water as the tank will begin to cycle once again.  and I would use the powder in the replacement water before adding it do your tank... and also do a pH test on the new water and the tank after you have added the new water.   Hope this helps... dave