Nitrate level too high

[Tumbleweed]

I was checking my water and found that I had a nitrate level of 40ppm, which I am told is too high. I did a 30% water change and retested the water the nest day and found that the level is the same. I tested the water coming from the tap to make sure I am not getting it from my tap water and that tested at 0. How can I get that level lower?

 

[Isabella]

If a tank is heavily stocked, after a 30% water change you may still have high nitrate. The only solution is to perform more frequent and/or larger water changes. In my 30 gallon tank that is temporarily overstocked (though it's not heavily overstocked), I perform 50% water changes twice a week to keep nitrate between 5 - 10.

 

[Tumbleweed]

thanks yeah the tank is temporarily overstocked, still need to finish setting up my 55 gal. I will try and change the water again and maybe change a little bit more then 30%.

Thanks Isabella

 

[Isabella]

You're welcome

 

[JP]

A good rule of thumb about water changes are the more regular you perform them the better. Weekly 30-50% changes will help lower that level and keep it low. You'll have much happier fish as a result. "freshwater fish love fresh water" ;-)