weekly test result - thoughts / comments

[brettschwartz]

current tests as of 12/5/09
salinity - 1.023
Ph - 8.4
ammo - 0
nitrite - 0
nitrate - 20
Time for a 25% water change? Note: I "think" the nitrates spiked due to the addition of some live coral last week (25+/-lbs worth)
Looking for advise...... (also, salinite was over .26, added reg. tap (declorinated ofcourse) and brought down to .23)
Brett

 

[chrisnif]

Your tap water may have nitrates in it, as most tap water does. If you change the water make sure its RO source salt water to minimize incoming pollutants. You may also try some nitrate removing pillows but they are expensive in the long run.

 

[geoj]

Ya, I do a small water change and then test to see what happened. Test the source first though

 

[brettschwartz]

got ya....
I figured as much, I just like to see what others think....
thanks

 

[srfisher17]

Originally Posted by Chrisnif
http:///forum/post/3183850
Your tap water may have nitrates in it, as most tap water does. If you change the water make sure its RO source salt water to minimize incoming pollutants. You may also try some nitrate removing pillows but they are expensive in the long run.
These products, like Fluval's nitrate remover, don't work in SW
To op brettschwartz: If using tap water, always test it for nitrate, phosphate, silicate and copper. Maybe other stuff too. Also, get a report from your water dept that will give you a lot of info on your water; all municipal water companies have them.

 

[flower]

20 is not high for nitrates at all. Never ever use tap water, there is more in it than chlorine and it feeds hair algae blooms.
It won't hurt to do a water change, but you have no problem with your water to be concerned about. You did more damage adding the tap water. SG at 1.026 is perfect ocean numbers.

 

[srfisher17]

Originally Posted by Flower
http:///forum/post/3184219

20 is not high for nitrates at all. Never ever use tap water, there is more in it than chlorine and it feeds hair algae blooms.
It won't hurt to do a water change, but you have no problem with your water to be concerned about. You did more damage adding the tap water. SG at 1.026 is perfect ocean numbers.
I really think that depends on your water source. I've used tap water forever in 3 locations and have never had a problem I'd blame on my water. I know RO/DI is generally the best choice; I just don't think its always necessary; especially in a fish-only tank.