Keeping aquariums requires a significant amount of care, but the colorful life that flourishes as a result is well worth the effort. To keep your fish and other aquatic life healthy, you need to test the tank’s water. Regular tests ensure that your water is at a clean and balanced level. Whether you purchase test kits or call upon the help of your favorite tropical fish shop, use the guide below to learn why water testing your fish tank is so crucial.

Why Should You Test Aquarium Water?

There are many potential problems your aquatic animals could face if there’s a chemical imbalance. The pH level, for instance, describes how acidic or alkaline the water is; these can change over time due to factors like water loss, fish waste, and water hardness. Even a small change can lead to stress or death. Therefore, it is critical to monitor the pH level of your tank and keep it steady.

By the time you notice the health of your fish declining, it may be too late. Water testing aquariums is a fairly simple process. It will be better for the well-being of your marine life and the quality of your water to test regularly.

What Does Testing Tank Water Involve?

When you test the water of aquariums, you’re looking at the core elements of a healthy tank—algae, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, and pH levels. For saltwater tanks, you might need to check salinity as well. Calcium testing is necessary in reef tanks, where coral needs the mineral to grow and develop stability.

Depending on the types of fish you keep, some nutrient levels may be more important to track than others. You’ll need to use testing kits specific to each chemical to properly inspect your water. If you are a beginner, there are all-in-one kits that will simplify the process.

How Do You Test Your Tank’s Water?

The tests themselves are kits that contain strips for checking chemical levels. Always follow the instructions provided on the kit and keep a written log of the results. This way, you can accurately compare changes over time. For those who are still a bit uncertain about testing, you can ask the staff at your tropical fish shop for help. They can do the testing for you and offer clear and straightforward results. Use these kits at least once a month, or ideally on a weekly basis, to maintain a healthy, thriving fish tank.

When you’re in the midst of learning how to care for your aquarium, turn to the helpful professionals at Gerber’s Tropical Fish for water testing and maintenance. Serving the Dayton and Cincinnati, OH area, this fish and aquarium supply store has everything you need to build and grow a lively tank. If you’re seeking unique tropical fish, sharks, or corals, they’re always bringing in new marine life. To hear about their new arrivals, call (937) 297-0515. Visit them online to learn more about their services.