What is the best way raise Ph levels?

[stephen]

My water is turning acidic lots and I do clean the tank once a week. How can I raise the Ph level so it will stay like that for a while because at the moment I use that Ph up ( I know it is not the best but it is the only thing I have) is there something better to use?

 

[kapo]

stop using the pH up. You've asked this question before a couple of months ago. Kaysie answered on how to raise pH , but you didn't answer our questions as to what the levels were etc... How acidic, what no., is it? Here's a link to the thread you originally posted. www.caudata.org/forum/showthread.php?t=44643&highlight=raising+acidic+levels

 

[stephen]

I forgot about that sorry for asking again. the pH reading was 5

 

[kapo]

Ok, didn't mean to sound abrupt, but you tend to have a problems and never answer relevant questions when someone attempts to help. Only way we can glean why and where the problem may be, in order to help you.

I know I'm repeating myself, but stop using the pH up, let your tank settle, and try what Kaysie mentioned to raise the pH. Test it every few days and keep a record of it.

We've never had any very low or very high pH readings with our tanks, so never had a problem.

Many people use this method for their tanks (fish and axolotl) rather than pH up, can't remember what the method is to lower it, but also seen it mentioned/used before.

 

[Kaysie]

Carbonate containing materials, such as crushed coral or limestone, will increase pH and buffer against pH swings. Peat moss will lower pH.

 

[stephen]

where can I buy carbonate containing materials? Do normal petshops sell them?

 

[Kaysie]

Sure, there are plenty around. Limestone can be found in garden centers (here it's found just anywhere outside, but I don't know your geology). Crushed coral can be found in pet shops. I would use a mesh bag to contain it and prevent the axolotls from ingesting it (a pair of pantyhose works well for this).