Using Peat in filter to soften water

nynikki

nynikki

"Would you like to play a game?"
Aug 7, 2007
348
0
0
Phoenix
Yes and yet another newbie question... but at least I'm asking! :newbie:

I bought a Fluval 205, I liked the idea of being able to add Peat granules to help soften the water, I live in Phoenix and we have really hard water down here. + I would like to add Angels at some point.

My first question is if I put the granules in, how long do I leave them in there? I don't want the water to get too soft, so I wonder if it will continue to soften the longer it is in the filter?

My second question has to do with PH itself. I tested my tap water straight out of the tap and it was 7.4. I put some in a cup and left it out on the counter for a day, retested and it went up to 8.2. For some reason I expected it to go down? In my tank, it has remained at 7.4, but I would like to try and get it to 7 eventually without the use of chemicals if possible. I just started cycling, so if it stays at 7.4, I'll be happy for it, but I figure better to get some advise in advance so I can be sure to keep it under control.
 
I use peat in my cannisters and usually replace every month. softens the water and gives it a nice yellow tint.

some driftwoods will do this too.
 
Add small amounts to the filter and track the results, replenish as necessary.

I would just leave the pH alone.
 
I dont think baking soda will lower PH, I use it in my reefs to buffer the PH and Alk. I have very hard water and my PH runs about 7.8 and I have never had any problems with my angels or breeding them in hard, alkaline water.
 
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