RTBS

I bought an AquaClear PowerFilter for my 20Gal about a week ago and since it has been running my nitrate level increased. I was told by the fish store to do a 25% water change. I just finished my second change this week and it seems to remain the same. Could it be the AquaSafe drops that i put in my water once i replace it with fresh tap water? Any ideas?

[1]

Steen16

What nitrate is your tap water?
Did you put used media in the new filter?

Shawnie

as steen said nitrates could be in your water...or other causes are over feeding, lack of water changes, or overstocked....I dont think the aquasafe (is that your water conditioner?) is the issue...how high are the nitrates btw?

RTBS

Just tested both Nitrates and ammonia, and my tap water is giving me 0 for the results of each. Im going to add the AquaSafe and see if it changes, maybe one drop per vile.

RTBS

NO2 was .50 and NO3 was 5.0

RTBS

The filter was new, i washed the sponge, the white cylinder rocks, and the carbon bag very well before putting it on the tank.

My fish food is New Life SPECTRUM Small Fish Formula pellets and i put a pretty nice size pinch maybe 20 pellets per day?

Also, i have added Aquarium salt twice to the tank in as many weeks.

Shawnie

you are in a cycle again because of newness .....daily water changes are whats needed to get back to a cycled tank....does the aquasafe neutralize the ammonia for a certain amount of time? prime does for 24 hours until your next change....

ewolfe315

1. Did you place the other sponge into the new filter or at least a piece of it.
2. No need for salt in the tank,it'll be there forever.
3. If your not getting any Ammonia readings add A live plant to eat up the nitrates,it does'nt have to be an expensive one. Who knows maybe you'll like it better then plastic and silk plants. I know I do.
4. As mentioned up above probably going through another cycle.

John