nitrates high and pH low

[newfishguy]

My tank just cycled but my nitrates are very high. They are around 180. I just did a small water change of 15% but that didn't seem to do anything. Should I do a larger water change? I believe someone suggested a 50% water change. My pH is 7.8 too. However, it has raised some because it was 7.4.
This is just a qt.
Contents
15 gallons
heater
power head
1.025 sg
80 degrees
bio wheel

 

[carshark]

yes if you are just about cycled, continue your 15% water changes, see where you are at then. also are your tests old? new? id bet your ph and nitrates will stabilize. what kind of salt are you using? and what kind of water?

 

[newfishguy]

Tests are new. I am using RO water with Red Sea Salt.
Originally Posted by carshark
yes if you are just about cycled, continue your 15% water changes, see where you are at then. also are your tests old? new? id bet your ph and nitrates will stabilize. what kind of salt are you using? and what kind of water?

 

[carshark]

hmmm, thats very odd, what did you use in your cycle? how did you kickstart it? by the way how is your ammonia?

 

[newfishguy]

I used a couple of shrimp from the grocery store. The Ammonia spiked and is now 0.
Originally Posted by carshark
hmmm, thats very odd, what did you use in your cycle? how did you kickstart it? by the way how is your ammonia?

 

[carshark]

ok well you are on your way, just keep doing 15-20% water changes, youll get there...there isnt a set time for cycles....

 

[newfishguy]

How often should I do the 15 - 20% water changes? I just did my first one yesterday.
Originally Posted by carshark
ok well you are on your way, just keep doing 15-20% water changes, youll get there...there isnt a set time for cycles....

 

[carshark]

Originally Posted by newfishguy
How often should I do the 15 - 20% water changes? I just did my first one yesterday.
do one again next week, unless you need the QT right now....

 

[newfishguy]

No I don't need it right now. My display tank is not even ready yet.
Ill check the levels and wait a week.

Originally Posted by carshark
do one again next week, unless you need the QT right now....