API POND Wide Range pH Test Kit Instructions

: June 7, 2024
: API

Table of Contents

Why Test for pH?
pH In Pond
Problems of Low pH
DIRECTIONS
Raising or Lowering the pH In the pond pH results between 5.0 to 6.8
pH results between 7.2 to 9.0 (alkaline)
Questions or Comments?
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

API POND Wide Range pH Test Kit

Why Test for pH?

pH is the measure of acidity or alkalinity of water. A pH reading of 7.0 is neutral, a pH higher than 7.0 is alkaline, and a pH lower than 7.0 is acidic. A healthy pond depends on proper pH balance. Many factors can significantly alter pond water pH, creating an unhealthy environment for pond life. Acid rain, minerals leaching from soil or rain run-off, decomposing plants and animal waste can all contribute to unstable pH levels in the pond.

pH In Pond

A pH of 7.0 is considered ideal for plants, fish and invertebrates in the pond. Some species of pond plants, such as waterlilies and hyacinths, thrive in very slightly acidic water below 7.0. Pond fish prefer an alkaline pH above 7.0. Therefore, an acceptable pH range is 6.8 to 7.6. Extreme pH levels above 7.6 or below 6.8 should be avoided.

Problems of Low pH

Nearly all ponds tend to turn slightly acidic (between 6.8 and 7.0) as the pond life develops. A pH below 6.8 will stress pond inhabitants. A low pH may be caused by increased carbon dioxide concentrations, the result of overstocking with fish or poor surface agitation. Proper fish stocking, as well as adequate pond filters or fountains, will correct carbon dioxide build- up and help stabilize pH.
A low pH (acidic water) may also be caused by decomposing organic matter, solid waste from fish and birds, and decaying vegetation. The use of API POND POND-ZYME® SLUDGE DESTROYER and regular pond maintenance will help to eliminate potentially deadly pH fluctuations.

DIRECTIONS

Read thoroughly before testing.

To remove childproof safety cap:

Push down on cap while turning.

Fill a clean test tube with 5 ml of pond water (to the line on the tube).
Add 5 drops of Wide Range Indicator Solution, holding dropper bottle upside down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops.
Cap the test tube and invert h-‘be to mix solution. Do not hold finger over open end of tube as body acid may effect the pH of the test solution.
Determine the pH by comparing the color of the solution with those on the pH color chart The tube should be viewed against a white background in a well-lit area. Rinse the test tube with clean tap water after each use.
After testing is completed, do not pour the test tube contents back into the pond. Rinse the test tube with tap water after each use.

Raising or Lowering the pH In the pond pH results between 5.0 to 6.8

(acidic)

To raise pH use API POND pH UP™. Add 2 teaspoonful (10 ml) of pH UP for each 50 gallons ( 189 L). pH should be raised no more than 0.5 units every 24 hours. Use pH UP as directed.

pH results between 7.2 to 9.0 (alkaline)

To lower pH use API POND pH DOWN™. Add I teaspoonful (5 ml) of pH DOWN for each 50 gallons ( 189 L) of pond water. pH should be lowered no more than 0.5 units every 24 hours. Use pH DOWN as directed.