Ph Adjustment?

[aquamike]

Hi guys,

I have well water which reads about 6.4 acidic. I was told from a lfs to just add a tablespoon of baking soda to my 135 gallon tank and that should make the ph nuetral. Does this sound right?

Thanks,
Mike

 

[BigC]

Yes adding Bicarbonate of Soda (not baking soda) will make your water more alkaline but just saying a teaspoon is open to question. If you wish to increase the pH then do it slowly and dont just dunk a teaspoon of bicarb into the tank, especially if there are already fish in it. I wouldn't bother changing the pH to 7 from 6.4 if your fish are fine and showing no signs of disease or stress.
Regards
BigC

 

[aquamike]

Yes adding Bicarbonate of Soda (not baking soda) will make your water more alkaline but just saying a teaspoon is open to question. If you wish to increase the pH then do it slowly and dont just dunk a teaspoon of bicarb into the tank, especially if there are already fish in it. I wouldn't bother changing the pH to 7 from 6.4 if your fish are fine and showing no signs of disease or stress.
Regards
BigC

Your response is interesting because I was told to use Arm and Hammer baking soda. I'm glad i asked. I think i will leave this water alone and just try to slowly introduce fish to this 6.4 ph.

Thanks,
Mike