GUIDES
How to stabilize KH/pH safely
Flashing, stress, and “random” issues often come from pH instability. The fix is usually raising and maintaining KH (alkalinity)—slowly and safely.
What KH does
- KH is the “buffer” that prevents daily pH swings.
- Low KH = pH can drop overnight and swing daily (fish hate swings).
- Stable pH improves immunity and wound healing.
Check this first
- Test pH morning and night for 1–2 days if fish are flashing.
- Test KH. If KH is low, fix it before assuming parasites.
Safe adjustment rules (important)
- Make changes gradually. Big swings stress fish.
- If you’re raising KH, do it in steps and re-test.
- When in doubt: spread adjustment over multiple days.
Simple step-by-step
- Test ammonia/nitrite first. If present, fix water quality before anything else.
- Test KH and pH (night + morning if symptoms are active).
- If KH is low: add buffer in a measured dose, spread around the pond, keep aeration strong.
- Wait a couple hours, re-test KH and pH.
- Repeat steps over days until stable in your target range.
When KH/pH is stable but symptoms continue
- Then move to symptom triage (flashing, lethargy, gasping).
- Or go to parasite workflow (includes a safe “shotgun” option): Parasites guide →