To add to the previous advice, i would very highly recommend using live plants...in LARGE quantities. Also, do small water changes regularly...it´s difficult to tell if your water is high in tannins or simply filthy.
Obviously i assume you weren´t hoping for this kind of response, but your current set-up is really not adequate as it is. Check the CC articles (links in signature) and make the necessary changes. These are very easy to care for newts and very rewarding when housed properly. They can give you joy for many, many years if you treat them well.