Thanks guys! I'll keep doing the PWC's everyday then, and test every few until I get in the safe zone.
I think my test readings might be out a bit, as I am slightly colorblind. I've been trying my best. And that's why I got a pet store test done as well.
Now, the PWC's seem to be bringing down the Nitrate, but there is still almost no alkalinity rise in my water. The water is still staying very acidic.
The water conditioner I use says in contains a pH buffer. Should I be using it sparingly, or a little more freely? Will it help at all? Or just complicate things more. I have only ever added conditioner when adding new tap water, as it instructs. But if I add some to my aquarium water will that do anything?
Sorry for all this. I am an aquarium noob, and am just trying to get all the information I need to be able to maintain a healthy aquarium
PS. I took a close look at the black algae and it seems like there is some new fuzzy GREEN algae growing overtop of it, and beside. Good sign!? I hope!
PSS. I keep my lights on around 8 hours a day. 3pm - 11pm usually.
It might vary a few hours here and there, as I'm not perfect haha.
Maybe I should invest in a timer. Recommendations on a good multi-control timer? So I can control the lights, and eventually some moonlights.