Freshwater Aquarium pH

Question
Hi!  I have had a 30 gal tank with freshwater fish for many years, but I moved about 6 months ago and now I am experiencing problems with the pH of my tank.  No matter what I do the pH of my tank is always very low (it seems to be below 6.2, which is the lowest pH on my test strips).  The alkalinity (KH) is also low at about 0 ppm, and the total hardness (GH) seems to stay between 75 and 150 ppm.  The nitrites and nitrates are at acceptable levels.  I have tried both liquid and powder pH adjustors, and now I'm changing the water and "vacuming" frequently (I'm not sure if that's helping yet).  I tested the conditions of the tap water and the pH was about 7, with moderate alkalinity and similar hardness.  I currently have some gouramis, two paradise fish, and about 6 tetras, but each week another fish dies (I've lost two algae eaters, a cory, a gourami, and some tetras).  Is there anything else that you would recommend I try?

Thanks!!!

Answer
Hi Adreanna;

The first thing to do is stop using the chemicals. They cause quick fluctuations that are more stressful to your fish than letting them stay in the pH that they are already in. If you want to increase alkalinity it needs to be raised gradually. It is healthier to do that in natural ways.

Add a piece of limestone, some limestone chips or some coral rock to the tank. Seashells and crushed coral will work too. Ground up oyster shell can be mixed in the gravel or put some in a nylon stocking and tie off the end. Lay it in the back of the tank where there is good water circulation. Whichever you use, rinse it very well so there is less dust getting into the tank causing cloudiness. PH tends to be more stable with extra circulation too, so you might consider adding an airstone hooked to an air bar, wand or an airstone.

Watch the pH very closely over the next few days. If the hardness gets too high, the pH will too. If so, take half the rocks or shells out and see how it goes from there. Continue making frequent water changes (25% once or twice a week) and cut back a little on food so that waste is kept to a minimum.

I hope it works out okay for you and your fish......

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins