pH Regulator
Why is it important?
Sometimes pH can fluctaute in fish tanks. The reasons for this are numerous, but commonly because of a build up of chemicals (released from plants, fish and decaying matter) or from new water added to the aquarium. Local water is often slighlty acidic or basic so it is a good idea to always test the water and treat it before putting it into the aquarium.
How is it used?
There are different ways to test water with different pH test kits but usually the directions are similar to this:
1.) Fill the small vile (plastic tube) provided with the water you are testing. Then put two drops of the pH Indicator Solution into the vile. Replace the lid on the vile and shake.
2.)When the colour is consistent, place the vile full of coloured water up against the pH colour comparison chart. Which colour is it closest to?
I have noticed it is hard to find places to hold up the vial that gives a true indication of the colour of the water. Holding it yp to a light gives teh water a more yellow colour; as does the sun. Comparing it on a piece of white paper makes it difficult as it is often to dark to really be able to tell. Below is an area you can hold it up to, as I have found the white pure light from a computer screen is very accurate.
3.) When you have decided on the colour that closest matched that in your vile, take a lookat the corresponding pH. A healthy and reasonable reading in generally between 6.8 and 7.2.
4.) If the reading is outside these amount you should adjust it slowly to either increase or decrease the pH reading.
5.) If it is lower (ie, under 6.8) you should add pH UP. Only add a very small amount at a time to ensure you get the right pH and do not go over and end up making it acidic!(too high!) A good amount to add at a time is about a pinch.
6.)If the reading is too high, you must add pH DOWN, in the same way as described above.
7.) Keep testing the water and repeating the steps until the reading is about 7.0.
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