[Silverfang]

I went out an splurged today, got a mini master test kit. No ammonia in either tank (thank you my jungles). But the PH is very low in my 10G. I tested the tap to compare, and it's about 6 straight from the tap.

I'm hoping someone can offer advice on how to deal with my low PH. I have to pick up a Kh/Gh kit, but last time I had that tested the levels were at 0.

And my readings, in case they help
For my 10 Gal
Ph 5.5 NO3(Nitrate) 5 NO2 (Nitrite) 0 NH3 (Ammonia) 0
For my 33Gal
Ph 6.8 NO3(Nitrate) 5 NO2 (Nitrite) 0 NH3 (Ammonia) 0
Thanks!

 

[LittleBettaFish]

Since a low pH like that is going to eventually slow down/stall your cycle (I've had it happen to me so many times), I would just add a small amount of crushed coral in a stocking to your filter.

This will provide a steady, long-lasting buffer. It does take some adjusting at first to find the right amount needed, but I use it in all of my cycled tanks and it does the job well.

 

[kfryman]

Is there something different you did with the 10 then the 33?

 

[Silverfang]

not really, just the 33 has been running longer than the 10. I got the 10 up and running around new years, but the 33 was started up in Sept.

Both have silica sand, both have live plants, both have bettas and MTS. Both have aquaclear HOB filters. Fluorescent lighting on the 33, just got an LED light on the 10, it's replacing a very iffy looking incandescent.