High PH and phosphate levels

Question
QUESTION: I have a ten gallon tank that has PH 7.6, ammonia .25, Nitrate 0, Nitrite .5, and the Phosphate turns so dark I can't get a good reading. I have been having problems with the PH for a few weeks now. I use Proper PH to try and level it out, but it does not work. I just got the Phosphate test so I don't know how long it has been high. In the tank I have 6 guppies, 2 tetras, 2 zebra guppies, 1 Rainbow Skirt, and 1 little frog. So far everything is fairly healthy. BUt I am new at keep a tank and don't know for sure. What can I do to level out the PH and bring the phosphates down? OH I also tested the tap water I use, its phosphate level was about 3.


ANSWER: The easy way to level out the PH is to water change with water of a lower PH.
This will drop the ph naturally, you can also use RO water the same way, diluting the PH to the desired level.
7.6 is not really that bad, take several readings over the course of the day as it varies at different times.
I would get a phosphate remover sponge or filter and use that, planting the tank will help as well.
Check the water from your tap to be sure the PH and Phosphates are not coming in right from the tap.
As this is not a "old" tank remember that it still is a bit unstable, things really don;t settle down for at least 6 months, so make changes slowly.
If you have more questions, feel free to ask

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What is RO water? and Where do you find it?

The phosphates I think I figured out. I tested some tap water I treated with only Proper PH. The phosphate test turned black.

Thanks for the info. It is really helpful.  

Answer
Usually you can find RO at your local pet shop, one that does salt water.
Sometimes I have seen it at the Box stores, Petco, Petsmart.
If you can;t find any you could always put a filter on the tap, like a Britta and that will help alot as well.
Let me know how you make out.