Water change???

[smccarthy]

How soon before I should do my first water change? My tank has been up for about 4 weeks now with a pair of damsels in it
nitrite: .25
nitrate: 40
PH: 8.2
Sould I wait until my nitrite's go to 0.0?

 

[granny]

Normally, when you cycle your tank, you wait till it completes the cycle, which means 0 nitrItes. The problem you run into when cycling with fish instead of inanimate 'stuff' is that your may have to do a partial water change to save the fish-which ultimately slows down your cycling time. Watch your fish-if they show signs of distress, do an immediate water change. I suggest having your water already made up, aerated, heated etc. so you are ready to go.

 

[mongaupt]

what if you dont have any fish. the nitrite should raise ans fall?

 

[smccarthy]

Are Nitrites the main thing to watch for. If my Nitrites go to 0 but I still have a high level of Nitrates would this still be considered a complete cycling? If this happens but my fish appear to be OK should I do a water change anyway?