HELP! (Well Water - Search did not find answer)

[Heatheranne]

The pH can be affected by different things. A low pH is acidic, often from too many nitrates (wastes) in the water. This can be corrected by more frequent water changes and assisted by a good biological filtration system. Sodium bicarbonate can also help, but with caution. A high pH (alkaline) is more likely related to heavy metals and/or chemicals or chemical byproducts found in the water. This can be corrected by making the water more acidic. The overall goal is good filtration with a nice biological filtration system and a routine of water changes. Be aware that different aquarium decorations can also affect the pH. Items such as natural wood can lower the pH and items such as shells and coral can increase the pH. There are different water agents you can add to the water to neutralize the pH. Check at your local aquarium shop. Take caution in adjusting the pH slowly so the fish and frogs do not go into shock.

Here is a nice article. DC will be able to help you more

http://www.fishyou.com/water.php

[PURP]

OK, just we all stay on the same page:

- All my decorations are plastic and were well rinsed prior to being put in the tank. Then the tank's filtering system was run for 48 hours (cycling water) prior to adding living creatures.
- As for cleaning, I use a syphon hose to remove about 2 buckets' worth of dirty water from the gravel and features, and then top up the tank with fresh water (from a country well) that is about 80 degrees. I do this every few days to remove as much visible poop as possible.
- I have an in-tank real-time ammonia monitor. I make sure it never goes above 'SAFE' (less than 0.02 ppm).