On Sun, 6 Mar 2005 17:57:25 +0000 (UTC), "Peter Smith"
wrote:

What do others think and if it is a PH problem, how to I reduce it?

I don't know, but a pH range of 6 thru 9 is recommended.

First check KH. Water changes may be good, but If you want a more
aggressive treatment here is some information I picked up here.

- if KH is below 150 ppm or so, adding baking soda will raise KH and
shift pH down towards 8.4. Suggested dose 1/3 pound per 1000 gallons.
That will raise KH by 20 ppm. or about 1 degree. ½ pound per 1500
gallons.- if KH is above 150 ppm or so, adding Muriatic acid (31% HCl)
will lower KH and shift pH down. Suggested dose 2 ounces per 1000
gallons.

pH Down -
Muriatic acid (31% HCl) a doses of approximately 2 fluid ounces per
1000 gallons per day until the pH is about 8.5. I would not lower the
pH below 8.5 without also testing KH (alkalinity). Acid directly
consumes KH. If KH is lowered below ~100 mg/l, pH will become
unstable, and the pH measurements become meaningless.

I diluted the acid in 5 gallons of water before adding it slowly to my
pond. Always add acid to water, never add water to acid.

Regards,

Hal