pH Meter for Aquariums, Ponds, and Fish Tanks

pH and the Importance of Maintaining the Correct Balance for the Health of Your Fish

Avid aquarists are aware of the importance of keeping their aquariums and fish habitat clean. While this is one of the most important steps in maintaining a healthy aquarium, pH levels are just as important, and are often overlooked. An aquarium with water that is too acidic or contains too much alkaline can result in illness and even death of your aquatic pets. Whether you have a saltwater or freshwater aquarium, the importance of maintaining proper pH cannot be overlooked. The health of the aquatic creatures in your aquarium is dependent on the environment in which they live. Prolonged exposure to an environment that is too acidic or too alkaline can drastically affect the health of your fish.

The information below discusses some of the most common issues associated with maintaining an aquarium and aquatic life. This information is not designed to be a comprehensive guide, but an overview of the most important aspects of creating a balanced habitat in which your fish can thrive and prosper. Testing the pH level in your aquarium is only part of the maintenance solution. Having the correct tools to correctly perform this type of maintenance is vital. A large variety of test kits are available for testing water in your aquarium. These kits are generally sold in small containers containing strips of paper than must be color coded to a chart. This can become messy, time consuming, and can be inaccurate. In order to get the most accurate reading without the hassle of matching colors, experts recommend that pH tests be performed with a pH Meter Pen. pH Meter Pens are an innovative alternative to test strips and are a “must-have” for anyone with the need for testing pH of any type of liquid. The right equipment can make all the difference when it comes to maintaining your aquarium.

What is pH?

pH (potential of Hydrogen) is the scientific measurement of the acidity or alkalinity of a liquid. A pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. The middle of the scale (7) indicates neutrality. Measurements of less than 7 indicate higher acidity, while numbers greater than 7 are indicate higher alkalinity (also known as basic). Each number in the scale indicates a multiple of ten. As an example, a pH reading of 4 indicates that the liquid being measured contains ten times the amount of acid as a liquid with a reading of 5, and one hundred times the amount of acid as a liquid with a reading of 6. Conversely, readings above 7 indicate alkaline levels increasing tenfold with each increment.

In simple terms, pH is the amount of acid or the amount of alkaline that a liquid contains. In most cases, water from your tap has a pH of 7 (neutral). Adding items to the water changes its properties, in turn, changing the pH level. pH levels in aquariums can change for a variety of reasons. Adding new habitat, decorations, commercial additives, or even more fish can change the pH level. Aquariums that are allowed to accumulate waste and debris are likely to have an imbalanced pH level. Frequent testing with an accurate tool such as the pH Meter Pen is vital in discovering pH changes.

The Importance of pH Levels for the Health of Aquatic Life

Maintaining the correct pH balance is vital to the health and longevity of your fish. Each type of fish has a specific pH level in which it thrives. Prolonged exposure to levels that range outside a fish’s ideal level can result in many health problems. Fish that are in an environment with too much or too little acid can develop physical problems with their skin, scales, eyes, and gills. If left untreated, water with an improper pH level can result in death. For your own reference, you can equate the effects of an improper pH level to ammonia. If used properly, ammonia is a perfectly safe substance for cleaning and other household uses. Over-exposure to ammonia can result in many problems for humans. Even worse, mixing ammonia with other chemicals can be deadly. While this is a drastic comparison, improper pH levels can become toxic to fish and other aquatic pets.

Saltwater aquariums require constant attention to pH levels. Allowing a saltwater aquarium to remain at an improper pH level without prompt attention to correcting the problem can result in a disastrous situation for the aquatic life inside the tank.Keeping in mind that most freshwater fish can readily adapt to slight pH changes, never introduce new fish without testing the pH of its current environment as well as the new environment.

Determining Correct pH Levels for Specific Species

Different fish require different levels of acidity or alkalinity. Fish have the ability to adapt to pH changes to some extent. Generally, a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5 is acceptable for most species of fish. Before purchasing new fish, always discuss the recommended pH levels for the species you are interested in adding to your aquarium. A reputable dealer will have the pH information readily available for the different types of fish that they offer. In many cases, tropical fish prefer higher alkaline levels than other types of fish. These fish can adapt to lower pH levels. If the level becomes too low, and the fish is subject to prolonged exposure, health problems can arise.

Some of the most popular fish are listed below along with the recommended pH level for general health purposes. The list below is not designed to be all-inclusive and should not be substituted for the information available from your veterinarian or aquatic professional.

Angelfish

The recommended pH level for Angelfish is between 6.5 and 7.0. This means that Angelfish thrive best in water this is very slightly acidic to completely neutral. Referring to the information above, each number represents ten times the acidic level of the number above it. So, for Angelfish, water that is neutral or only very slightly acidic is the ideal environment. These fish can adapt to higher and lower levels. However, for optimum health and longevity, levels should be maintained at a near neutral level. The optimum pH level for breeding Angelfish is between 6.5 and 6.8. Though, breeding has been successful in higher pH levels.

Clown Loach

These fish have a recommended pH level of 7.2 to 7.5. Loaches have the need for slightly alkaline water. Reputable dealers recommend that you purchase at least four of this type of fish per tank to avoid stunted growth. The pH levels required by this type of fish must remain very close to the recommended numbers. It is unlikely that breeding will occur even at optimal pH levels. Only in rare instances has this fish been successfully bred in aquarium settings.

Gold Fish

Possibly the most common type of fish purchased for aquariums, the Gold Fish has a recommended pH level of 7.0 to 7.5. This means that these fish thrive best in water that is slightly alkaline. Often, Gold Fish are given as prizes or kept in small fish bowls. Because of their limited environment in these situations, acid levels can build up due to waste and uneaten food. This often results in the death of fish in these types of containers. Proper care and maintenance is a must for Gold Fish in this type of environment. Simply creating a monthly schedule is not sufficient for the health of a Gold Fish. Water should be changed weekly to ensure the health of the fish. Aquarium owners find that Gold Fish are one of the most versatile fish available for which to stock their aquariums. With proper pH levels, these fish can have very long life spans. Breeding has occurred at levels as high as 7.7, however to have the most healthy fish and optimum breeding conditions, pH levels should never rise above 7.5.

Harlequin

The Harlequin fares best at pH levels between 6.0 and 6.5. This means that these fish require slightly acidic water. These fish often resemble Gold Fish and should not be confused with them. While Gold Fish require neutral to alkaline water, the Harlequin requires slightly acidic water. Confusing the two fish can result in illness or even death. These fish are difficult to breed, but breeding has occurred at levels as high as 7.5. Levels this high are not recommended for Harlequins.

Hatchetfish

The Hatchetfish thrives best at pH levels between 6.0 and 7.0. These fish prefer moderately acidic to neutral water. These fish are not as difficult to breed as some of their aquatic cousins. pH levels can range to just a few tenths above 7.0 and breeding can still occur. These fish are able to adapt to slightly alkaline water levels, but it is not recommended.

Neon Tetra

The Neon Tetra has a recommended ph level of 5.8 to 6.2. This means these fish prefer moderately acidic water. Often these fish should not cohabitate with fish who prefer more alkaline levels. Breeding of the Neon Tetra is very difficult, though established and experience aquarists have had success. Success in breeding the Neon Tetra can be directly attributed to the perfect pH level. For optimum breeding the level should remain around 6.0.

Testing the pH Level of Aquariums

pH strips are small strips of paper that are dipped into the water. The reaction caused by the levels of acid or alkaline cause the paper to change color. The color is then matched to a chart, which provides an estimated pH level. These strips are very popular and are an acceptable method of testing the water. However, the reading provide is not exact. In some instances, the reading can be off by as little as several tenths of a percent up to one whole number.

A digital pH tester is the best way to obtain the most accurate pH level reading. Digital testers provide precise pH levels to the one hundredth percentile. These digital testers are completely waterproof and use batteries to operate a small microchip designed to measure pH levels. While the initial cost of these digital pen readers can be significantly more than purchasing a small vial of strips, they last much longer. This saves money due to the fact that they do not have to be replaced after each use.

There are several acceptable methods to test the pH level of the water in your aquarium. pH strips are widely available that provide moderately accurate results. Digital testers are recommended as they provide an exact reading of the pH level and there is no guessing at matching the color guide. Reputable professionals recommend a digital reader to obtain the most accurate result. Accuracy is the key to maintaining a health environment for your fish.

Frequency of pH Testing

pH levels should be tested monthly. Aquarium owners know the importance of establishing a maintenance routine to keep their aquatic pets healthy. Testing the pH level should become part of your monthly aquarium maintenance. pH testing kits are small and can be kept in the same container as your other maintenance items.

Test the pH of your aquarium more frequently if fish become sick or die. Illness or death can be a sign of an unhealthy environment. In the event of illness or death of a fish, test the pH of your aquarium weekly or bi-weekly to ensure that pH levels are normal for the specific species of fish housed in your aquarium.

Using the digital pen tester is recommended for frequent testing. The digital pen can simply be dipped into the water for an instant reading. This saves time over having to match the color chart to the color of the paper, which can sometimes be difficult to distinguish.

Depending on the situation and the type of fish in your aquarium, pH testing can be done daily, weekly, bi-weekly, or even monthly. If you are attempting to correct a problem with your aquarium, more frequent testing may be required. Truth be told, you cannot test the pH of your tank too frequently. With gadgets like the pH Meter Pen, it just takes seconds to dip the pen into the water and see the digital readout. Adjustments can be made on an “as needed” basis.

Lowering pH Levels

Commercial products are available that are designed to lower the pH level of your aquarium. These products are generally safe to add to the water without the need to remove the aquatic life from the tank. Be sure to follow the manufacturers directions regarding adding these commercial products.

For those on a tight budget or who are short on time, adding a bit of vinegar or lemon/lime juice to the water can also reduce the pH. It is recommended that all aquatic life be removed from the tank before adding these products to prevent direct contact with these acidic elements. Many supply stores sell peat to place in the filter. Peat assists in lowering the pH level of the water as well. Peat is widely available and relatively inexpensive. It works well at a gradual pace and it will not cause the fish to experience the trauma of a rapid pH change.

Raising pH Levels

Commercial products are available that can raise the pH level of water that is too acidic. These products can be bought at pet supply stores or your reputable dealer. As with products designed to lower the pH level, be sure to read the manufacturers directions in regards to increasing pH level as well. Removal of aquatic life may be required depending on the type of product that you purchases.

Common household items can also be used to raise the pH level of your aquarium. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) can be added to the water without the need to remove aquatic life. Depending on the acid levels of the water, a few teaspoons can be all that is needed to restore the pH level to a healthy state. Adding Limestone rocks can also assist in raising the pH level of the water in your aquarium. This provides a very inexpensive way to make a gradual adjustment that won’t affect the health of your fish.

Removal of Aquatic Life

Many aquarists have concerns over whether they should remove fish and other living creatures from their aquarium before attempting to adjust the pH levels of the water. The answer to this question is not quite as simple as “yes you should” or “it’s not necessary”. In some cases, when using commercial products, there is no need to remove your fish. In other cases, the manufacturers recommend complete removal of all aquatic life so as not to upset the delicate balance of their internal pH levels.

Rapid pH changes can be harmful to fish. If a fish is removed and kept in water from an aquarium while maintenance is performed, then placed back into water with a vastly different pH level, serious consequences could occur. Ensure that you take care to change the pH level slowly, especially if the fish remain in the tank while you are performing maintenance.

When using products that are safe for your fish, there is no need to remove the fish while adjusting the pH. Large adjustments should be completed without the fish in the tank because rapid pH changes can be harmful to the fish. Fish should only be re-introduced to the tank once the pH level has become stable and is relatively close to the level of the water from which they will be transferred.

Medicating Aquariums

If you have ailing fish or a professional has recommended that you add medication to your aquarium to remedy an algae problem, you must test the pH of the aquarium on a daily basis for at least the period in which the medication is administered and active. The digital pH Meter Pen tester is an excellent way to quickly know the exact pH of your aquarium. Even with medication used to treat ailments commonly found in captive fish, pH levels can fluctuate depending on a variety of factors and must be kept under control.

Medications should only be administered if recommended by a veterinarian or experienced professional. Additives to the water of the environment of your fish can alter the habitat in such a way as to have adverse affects. Many professionals recommend that aquarists avoid the use of medications when possible. Medications, while helpful in many cases, add chemical compounds to the water which can alter the sensitive habitat and environment.

pH Test Kits

Yes! In fact, the pH Meter Pen is the absolute best way to test the pH of any liquid in any situation. It is especially effective in testing the pH levels in aquariums because the pen provides an easy to read level display and there is no need to compare the color on a strip of paper to the color on a chart included with a package of strips. The pH Meter Pen is totally waterproof and can be reused numerous times without purchasing anything else until the battery runs down.

Many aquarists have experienced using the pH testing strips. While these strips are useful, they can be less than accurate and hard to understand. If you accidentally drop the test strips into the water, they are ruined. Test strips cannot be reused and the occurrence of accidental water contact makes them useless.

The pH Meter Pen is the size of an average ink pen and can be stored nearly anywhere. The pH Meter Pen can be used to test any liquid for any application purpose. Aquarists particularly appreciate the ease of use of the pH Meter Pen. The pH Meter Pen can be used for swimming pools, taxidermy uses, and a wealth of other applications.

Preparing for New Fish

Before you purchase new fish, make sure to test the pH of the water of your aquarium, as well as the water of the aquarium in which the fish are currently located. The pH Meter Pen makes this task simple and easy. Simply dip the pen into the water of each tank and make note of the pH levels. If there is a significant difference in the two, the aquarium at your location must be brought to the same level as the aquarium from which the fish will come. Make this adjustment over a one week time span in order to avoid stress on the fish currently in the aquarium. Once your aquarium reaches the same pH level as the aquarium that currently houses the fish you wish to purchase, you are ready to bring the fish home. You must also do a bit of research to ensure that the fish you intend to purchase can successfully cohabitate with the fish you currently own. Certain species of fish should not be mixed. A reputable dealer can provide advice on which fish are suitable tank mates.

pH and Breeding

pH always matters to an extent. Most experts will agree that for those who are uninterested in breeding their fish, the pH level is not as important as maintaining a constant pH value. Sharp increases or declines in pH can cause serious health problems to otherwise healthy fish. This is why it is vital to check the pH of the water in your aquarium frequently. It is not vital to maintain a specific number for non-breeders, but it is vital to maintain a specific range. As discussed previously rapid pH changes can be detrimental to the health of your fish.

While most fish are more sensitive to pH levels during breeding, often the pH level can vary by one or two and there will be little to no effect. This does not apply to saltwater aquariums as the fish and aquatic life in these tanks are often very sensitive to change. Every effort must be made to ensure that the pH level is at the optimum range for breeding based on the species of aquatic life in your tank. Reef tanks are especially finicky when it comes to breeding and pH levels.

Beginning breeders often find that they have difficulty with successful breeding. This is due largely to the pH level of the water. Most fish have an optimal pH level in which breeding is most successful. Water that remains outside this level can often hinder the breeding process. Some fish are naturally difficult to breed in captivity regardless of pH level. Other fish are able to be bread more readily, but require precise pH levels for breeding to take place.

Depending on the type of fish you wish to breed, the pH level can result in fantastic success or saddening failure. A professional aquarist can provide breeding information specific to the species of fish that you own. To get the most accurate pH reading, the pH Meter Pen is the only tool available that provides accurate results with the least amount of hassle. The pH Meter Pen is simple to use and there is no guessing game when it comes to matching colors to get a reading. Breeding is not an easy task for beginners. Patience and dedication are rewarded with success and a new stream of income for those who persevere.

Saltwater Vs. Freshwater Aquariums

A large number of professional and amateur aquarists prefer saltwater aquariums over freshwater simply because they often allow for more beautiful and majestic display of aquatic life. Who wouldn’t agree that creatures seen beneath the ocean surface are much more beautiful than those under the surface of rivers and streams? Saltwater aquariums require much more maintenance than do freshwater aquariums. Many saltwater aquarium owners turn to the aide of a professional service to maintain their fish and habitat. There are pros and cons to both types of aquariums. Both require maintenance and both can become quite expensive. The information below lists some of the most popular pros and cons of both types of aquariums.

Freshwater Aquariums

Pros
Freshwater aquariums are much less expensive to start. Freshwater aquariums are relatively inexpensive, as are supplies and maintenance. Fish for freshwater aquariums cost much less than fish for saltwater aquariums.

Freshwater aquariums are easier to maintain. If the pH gets out of balance in a freshwater aquarium, it is much easier to correct than with a saltwater aquarium. Because the overall setup is less expensive, if a horrible mistake is made, it’s relatively easy and painless to start over.

Freshwater aquariums require much less maintenance and care than do saltwater aquariums. Those who have very busy schedules find that they prefer freshwater over saltwater simply because they are required to spend less time on them.

Beauty can be found in freshwater aquatic life. One of the reasons people opt for saltwater is the variety of beautiful fish available. Various bright colors are considered attractive and often are seen mainly in saltwater aquariums. Brightly colored and beautiful fish are available for freshwater aquariums as well. They do tend to cost more than an average goldfish.

Stocking the aquarium is inexpensive. Many types of fish can be purchased for very little money. Aquariums can be filled directly from the kitchen sink. There is no need to have water shipped in or delivered periodically.

Cons
Freshwater aquariums often are not as beautiful as saltwater aquariums. The choices for stock are somewhat limited.

Because stocking your aquarium is somewhat inexpensive, the fish are not always treated well before purchasing them. When something only costs a few cents to obtain, often they are not as well kept as more expensive fish.

Saltwater Aquariums

Pros
There is a large variety of aquatic creatures from which to choose. The stocking choices are more plentiful than those for freshwater aquariums.

Saltwater aquariums create a virtual ecosystem in a small environment. Adding coral, snails and other aquatic creatures allows you to see how these beings interact to create a habitat in which they can all thrive.

Services are available that will handle the maintenance and care of your saltwater tank for a fee. This takes all of the work out of owning a saltwater aquarium.

Cons
Saltwater aquatic life is quite particular in regards to habitat and pH levels. Maintaining these items can be costly. Saltwater stock is very expensive when compared to freshwater stock.

Mistakes in a saltwater aquarium can lead to extensive cost to restore and can take months to repair the environment. Saltwater tanks cannot be stocked all at one time. They must be stocked over several weeks. During this time constant checks must be done to ensure that the pH level is correct and the habitat is suitable. Some experts claim that you should wait months before putting the first fish into the tank in order to assure that the environment is suitable.

Saltwater tanks require some type of care daily. This can include, adding water for evaporation, skimming, or resetting habitat that has been knocked over.

Whether you choose saltwater or freshwater, be aware that both types of aquariums require maintenance and both have their positives and negatives. Doing research prior to making your decision is vital. You must decide if you have the time, patience, and money required to start and maintain a saltwater tank. You must also decide if you have the dedication and drive to maintain a freshwater tank.

pH Levels and Nitrates

Low pH levels can result in high Nitrates in your aquarium. When Nitrates reach a very high level, fish and aquatic plants can feel the effects. This sometimes can result in death. Nitrates that are too low can also result in negative effects on the aquatic life. By maintaining the proper pH, generally one can also maintain the correct level of Nitrates.
Low pH levels can cause the water to become cloudy and murky. This is unhealthy for the fish. Commercial products are available that can aide in clearing the water, pH levels must be checked to ensure the problem does not persist.

High pH levels can be toxic depending on the type of fish that you have. Most freshwater fish can adjust to pH levels that are a bit higher than the recommended range. Many professionals recommend that you replace up to fifty percent of the water in your tank and wait one week before testing and introducing fish to the aquarium. In some cases, several months can elapse before a saltwater tank is fully stocked. This is to ensure that the environment is safe for the aquatic creatures that will be introduced.

Photosynthesis can directly affect the pH of your aquarium. This naturally occurring process occurs through any live plants that are in your aquarium. The best method of discovering pH changes due to photosynthesis is frequent testing with the pH Meter Pen.

Cost of pH Meter Pen

The pH Meter Pen is quite inexpensive. Take into consideration that the pH strips that you normally purchase are used only one time before they are thrown out. A box of pH strips can last a few months at the most, while the pH Meter Pen can literally last a life time. While the upfront cost of the pH Meter Pen might be a bit more than you would pay for a package of test strips, the pen more than pays for itself with ease of use and longevity. pH test strips are useless if they come into contact with moisture. The pH Meter Pen does not have this problem. The pH Meter Pen is long-lasting and provides the most accurate results without the hassle of using strips. Not only is the pH Meter Pen less expensive in the long run, it is the best product on the market to determine accurate pH levels in any liquid substance.

Maintaining the pH Meter Pen

Proper care and maintenance are required with any electronic device. The pH Meter Pen is shipped complete with all of the supplies that you will need in order to keep the pen working in top order throughout the life of your pen. The pH Meter Pen comes complete with plastic carrying case for your convenience. A wrist strap is attached to the pen to assure that if the pen is dropped, it is easily retrievable. A plastic probe cover is included to protect the probe from the elements. A small screwdriver and buffer solution is included for calibration purposes. The pH Meter Pen is ready to use directly out of the package. No calibration is required before use. The pH Meter Pen is completely waterproof. Accidentally dropping the pen into your aquarium won’t render it useless as it would traditional pH strips.

Negative Effects of Improper pH

Aquariums with a pH level that is too high or too low can cause illness or death to aquatic life. Regularly testing the pH level of your tank can serve in avoiding these serious problems. Keeping an accurate pH tester on hand is vital in order to maintain the proper pH for the type of aquatic life in your tank. Often, when pH levels are off balance aquatic life begins to exhibit specific symptoms. Thrashing about in the water is one symptom that fish may be suffering from pH shock. Normally mildly active fish can begin to dart aimlessly throughout the tank when pH levels are out of kilter. Fish that are suffering from pH shock can die suddenly, making it difficult to diagnose the cause without a pH filter. Fish that remain at the surface of the water for extended periods of time can be suffering from the effects of an imbalanced pH level. Some fish even go as far as attempting to jump out of the aquarium in order to escape the habitat that is making them ill.

There are numerous afflictions from which fish can suffer. The majority of these afflictions can be avoided by maintaining the proper pH level in their habitat. Illnesses that are caused by other factors such as ammonia content levels can be avoided by maintaining the proper pH levels. Generally, when pH levels are correct, related problems occur in fewer instances.

Affects of pH Levels on Fish Growth

While most fish can easily acclimate to pH levels that are slightly outside of the recommended range for the species, they often can experience physical effects that do not necessarily affect their overall health. Fish that experience prolonged exposure to pH levels that are incorrect can experience stunted growth. Normally, this does not affect their health and they carry out normal lives. In optimal conditions the fish have the potential to grow longer. A fish that could reach six inches in length in optimal conditions may only reach three to four inches in water with a pH level that is out of range.

Professional Maintenance Versus Do-It-Yourself

Many commercial companies are available that will handle all of your aquarium maintenance needs. The cost of hiring an outside company can become burdensome over a period of time. Professional maintenance companies provide great benefit to aquarists with limited time and ability to handle their own maintenance. Professionals have all of the gear and equipment required in order to test the water and clean the tank to ensure the health and longevity of your aquatic life. These companies often make monthly maintenance visits and are on-call for issues that may arise between scheduled maintenance. These companies provide an excellent service for their clients. What many aquarists do not realize, is that they have the ability to do this maintenance without the aide of a professional.

With a bit of knowledge and the willingness to learn, any aquarist can master performing maintenance on their aquarium without the aide of a professional. Having the correct tools and equipment for the job is the first step in successfully performing maintenance on one’s own aquarium. Many supply stores sell pre-packaged maintenance kits that provide an all-in-one answer to aquarium maintenance needs. Many of these kits include pH testers in the form of strips. It is important to realize the advantages and disadvantages of using these strips. As discussed previously, pH testing strips can be difficult to read, unreliable, and if exposed to moisture, completely useless. If you purchase a maintenance kit, be sure to add a pH Meter Pen to the kit to assure that pH values are accurate each time they are tested.

pH and Plant Life

Aquarists who introduce plants to their aquariums will find that maintaining the correct pH levels is vital to keeping plants healthy. Like fish, each plant has a recommended pH level for optimal growth and vitality. Plant life requires near precise pH levels. Adding plant life to an aquarium provides much needed oxygen for other aquatic life. Through photosynthesis, plants produces vital compound that are required for other underwater life.

Because both fish and plants are affected by pH levels, aquarists should choose plants that require a pH level very near the same level required by their fish. Plants and other similar items should be added to the aquarium gradually to avoid a sharp change in pH levels, which can all forms of aquatic life.

Applying What You Have Learned

After reading the information above, you are well equipped with the knowledge needed to start and maintain a healthy aquarium. Keeping in mind that pH levels can affect nearly all aspects of owning an aquarium will allow you to be pro-active in preventing problems and keeping the aquatic environment in top shape. pH levels have a profound effect on fish and plant life. Regular pH testing will provide the information needed to take action before problems arise. Prevention can be the key to keeping aquatic healthy and thriving.

Knowing ahead of time what type of aquatic life will be introduced to your aquarium will give you ample opportunity to adjust pH levels to the correct numbers. By slowly introducing new life to your aquarium over a period of time, you are able to maintain the correct pH balance for optimum health. New aquariums may require weeks before they are ready to accept aquatic life.

Keeping a maintenance kit, complete with a pH Meter Pen, will go a long way toward keeping your tank in good condition. The pH Meter Pen is the most convenient, accurate, and easy way to measure pH levels in your aquarium. These pens are very inexpensive and pay for themselves very quickly.

Get advice from professionals. Many retail clerks do not have the knowledge to give you professional advice. This is not to say that you should avoid retail establishments. It is to encourage you to be sure to have the knowledge required before you make your purchase. Professional aquarists can be the best source for information regarding the correct conditions for your aquatic life. Once you have gained the knowledge required to effectively manage your own aquarium, retail establishments are a wonderful venue in which to find new aquatic life to add to your aquarium.

Choosing a saltwater or freshwater aquarium is based largely on personal choice. Before making the decision either way, carefully consider the pros and cons of both options. Be certain that you have the time and commitment necessary to manage either type of aquarium. Making a purchase without following through on the required maintenance can be a very costly mistake. Aquariums prices vary depending on the type of set-up one prefers. While more expensive aquariums can come with accessories, maintenance kits, and other items, less expensive tanks can be just as effective if managed properly.

Never add chemicals to your aquarium unless instructed to do so by a professional. Medications and other chemicals can alter the pH balance and result in other health issues for your aquatic life. If you fish are suffering from health problems, your veterinarian or professional aquarist will recommend a course of action to correct the problem. Adding medication or clarifying solutions without first understanding the root of the problem can lead to costly mistakes. Be sure to discuss aquatic life removal before adding any type of equipment to your tank.

The pH Meter Pen is a vital piece of equipment for every aquarium owner. This device is the best tool for frequent pH checks. The digital readout provides instant and accurate readings allowing you to make the necessary changes before problems arise. The pH Meter Pen allows aquarists to avoid the most common problems associated with using pH test strips.

The pH Meter Pen is perhaps the most convenient method of testing your aquarium available. This portable meter and accessories fit comfortably in many handbags, purses, or pockets and can be used to test water in virtually any circumstance.

Some other uses of the pH Meter Pen

	The pH Meter Pen allows users to test their aquarium water without using test strips and their attendant color charts, which can be messy and inaccurate. It also has the advantage of having every component together in one device, eliminating the need to fumble with a separate probe and meter. This makes the device more compact, sanitary, and accurate.

The pH Meter Pen really is pen size...

Only £29.95 + £3.95 P&P

How to use the pH Meter Pen

To test your water, remove the probe cover and simply immerse the tip in the water. pH is measured on a scale of 14, with 1 representing total acidity, and 14 representing total basicity, or alkalinity. A reading of 7 represents a perfect balance between acidity and basicity.

pH Meter Pen is fully callibrated

Continued accuracy of your pH Meter Pen depends on calibration of the meter itself. This is provided for with the FREE Buffer Solution included.

Your pH Meter Pen is callibrated prior to despath to you.

FREE Buffer Solution with every pH Meter Pen

The pH Meter Pen comes with a wrist strap and probe cover.

The pH Pen Meter comes with a protective cover, wrist strap and screwdriver for calibration.

The pH Meter Pen makes a fantastic birthday or Xmas gift.

Mayby you have a friend or spouse who could enjoy the benefits of the pH Pen. Go on, treat them. It's easy!

Your pH Meter Pen is delivered to your door within a few days.