Freshwater Aquarium pH problem?

Question

I have had a freshwater aquarium now for about 8 weeks. My pH has ranged from 8.2 to 8.8 and I was wondering how to lower it. I do have tap water (although I am not sure if running it from an outside faucet would bypass the water softener and if that would have any effect on pH, I did read tap water has a higher pH). I also had quite a few shells in my tank that I just took out because I guess the calcium carbonate can effect pH and make it higher. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. My nitrates and nitrites seem to be ok, and my ammonium levels are good, along with no chlorine. Thanks in advance,

Brad

Answer 1

You can buy a ph neutralizing solution at the pet store. I would recommend using it as needed and when you add new water to the tank.

Answer 2

It is probably your local water supply that is causing this. It would be great for African Rift Lake Cichlids, but not so good for Discus or angelfish. I suggest you get a water distiller machine that you attach to your faucet. It will lower the hardness and Ph of your water making it neutral to lower than average (which is good for most south american / other species of fish)

Answer 3

It's possible the shells were doing it.  First, test your tap water.  Get a glass of water and test it.  Let it sit out for at least 12 hours, and re-test it.  That should be about what happens in your tank.  

Shells and limestone rocks will raise the ph, so if that's not what you want, then remove them.  Tap water ph just depends on where you live and the water company-if it's a public water supply.