Basic ph problems...I can't raise it

[tomtyldaddy]

Ok, this seems too basic, but I've been in the hobby for 15 years (three tanks). I've never had a problem until this most recent 39 gallon tank. I cannot raise the ph above 6.2 to 6.4...I'd settle for 6.8 let aloe 7.0.

My city water supply is good. All my other test come out fine. I can't figure it out.

It's driving me crazy!!

Sorry if it seems like it belongs on the beginner section.

Tomtyldaddy

[AngelMom]

Welcome to the forums!

You are going to need to provide more info before anyone can help. Please read the announcement (http://www.aquariumpros.com/forums/announcement.php?f=12) at the top of this forum. And specifically, what reading did you get on the KH test?

[CrazieEddie]

In addition to AngelMom's questions, I would like to ask...

What is the pH from your tap?

What is the pH in your other tanks?

What decor do you use in the 3rd tank, where you are having a problem with?

[lloyd berg]

more water changes. ;)

[tomtyldaddy]

Ph from my tap is 6.8 to 7.0.

I do weekly water changes and I even try a 50% change a few weeks back.

The decor inclides fake plants, a couple of large red rocks and a couple of plastic decos--log, skull. I've tried taking each of these items out seperately and to no avail. I use blue basic aquarium rock for my base.

I have a powerhead for aeration
I have a Penguin Bio wheel 200

When I run tests, my ph is consistently at or below 6.2. Alkalinity is also always 40-60 (low or low moderate). I use the Jungle Quick Dip that tests 5 levels.

Hope this is more info that can help advise me.

[lloyd berg]

try adding some baking soda to a test bucket of tap water. if the ph does not rise...you need a new testing procedure. if the ph in the test bucket does rise...then the prob is definetely within the tank. (just to eliminate the (possibly) obvious before racking yourself on other ideas) :)

[AngelMom]

Have you added any chemicals to the tank (besides the needed dechlorinator)?

Also, I recommend getting a liquid or dry tab test kit. The strips are really only good for qualitative tests and tend to be unreliable, especially if any moisture gets in the bottle.