What Causes pH Changes in and Aquarium
The pH level in your aquarium can make a substantial difference to the health of your fish. It's important to maintain high water quality, using a filter and weekly water changes - but keeping an eye on the chemistry in your aquarium is equally vital.
In this guide, the aquatic experts at AllPondSolutions explain some of the issues that cause pH to fluctuate in your aquarium and what you should do about it.
Causes of Aquarium pH Fluctuations
The alkalinity or acidity of your aquarium ranges from zero to 14, with seven being neutral. Some of the factors that cause the pH to change are:
- Trace mineral content in the water.
- Impacts caused by your aquarium
- A poor functionality filtration system.
- Objects or aquarium decorations, such as driftwood.
Understanding what is causing the pH changes is fundamental since you can then replace any incompatible items or upgrade your Aquarium Filter to a better performing model.
How to Restore a Healthy Aquarium pH Level
The pH level in your aquarium can go up or down. If it suddenly drops, you can:
- Change the water, restoring the natural pH balance.
- Replace your Aquarium Sand and Gravel with a fresh substrate.
- Improve aeration in your tank with an Air Stone or a more powerful filter.
Tips to Correct pH Increases in an Aquarium
If the pH goes the other way and starts to rise, you can also address the problem by:
- Adding aquarium plants such as peat moss, which acts as a substrate.
- Reduce the aeration, or add supplementary CO2 Aquarium Treatments.
The best way to stay on top of your aquarium water chemistry is to test your tank water each week with a PH control test and then identify when something is wrong and how to fix it to ensure your fish have a natural, safe environment to thrive in.