I could use some help. Let's just say that I was a little uniformed when setting up my tank. I bought the tank, added water and conditioner as instructed. The next day, I put in a couple fish like the pet store guy said that I could. How was he supposed to know that I didn't know anything about fish? Anyway, the water turned cloudy and looked "off" just two days later. I went to the pet sotre again, they suggested that I test the water (and said I should have tested before putting fish in...I wish I had know that!). Anyway, I tested. Very hard water, high Alkalinity, High PH, and High ammonia. Went back to a different store. They suggested that I do a 40% water exchange with conditioned distilled water and treat the PH and ammonia. So I did according to the directions. Well...here I am same boat. The PH and ammonia has never gone down! Went back today, they told me that I was fighting a loosing battle with a new tank and that I should just let things go. Fish may survive or not, but new water is extremely difficult to balance. So now I am confused. I have clearly made mistakes along the way but want to fix this for my fish. I would like them to safely making it through the tank cycling. Can someone please direct me what to do now????