How Do I Get Softer Water?

[nukeonekitty]

I used the search function and couldn't find what I wanted. I am looking for a water to lower to KH/GH of my 20 gal planted tank. It is around 12 right now so it is pretty high. It is Co2 injected and has drift wood in it. Any ideas? Can I just use distilled water for my water changes?

 

[Aphotic Phoenix]

Distilled water is too pure to use alone for aquarium water. You can however use "pure" water (RO/DI is considered better than distilled for some reason) to cut your tap water to attempt to achieve the desired GH/KH. Just remember that you'll be making a commitment to always mix your water every single water change. The minerals that make water "hard" are needed for 1) a pH buffer, and 2) fish and plants absorb minerals from the water.

 

[ljaus]

hi, one thing i have read about for lowering ph is peat moss but the down fall is it leeches tannins into the water giving it a tea colour it does get used commenly in discus tanks. as to what was said above you can use r/o water i have read about it doubling plant growth but you will lose the minerals so a mix of both would help

 

[nukeonekitty]

Thanks guys!