Water changes and water conditioner

Quick and hopefully easy question. I recently got a gravel vac that connects directly to my faucet so I don't have to haul buckets of water. Currently I do about 50% water changes weekly due to both a heavy stock and high nitrate levels in my tap water. Emptying the water is really easy with this but my questions are about refilling the tank.
1. is it okay to fill the tank using the hose and then add my conditioner to the tank or should I fill a bucket, treat the water then dump it in. (50% water change takes about 10 - 15 mins to fill the tank.)

2. If I can fill the tank without using the bucket should I add the conditioner before I fill the tank or after?

Thanks, as always, for the help.

 

I would suggest adding the conditioner first, then as long as temp is close, just fill directly to the tank. Easiest way. Some may say to use a bucket, but that is just extra work.

 

When I do it, I usually add the conditioner as its filling.

 

Thanks for the help. Good to know I don't really need to use the bucket and treat each bucket full.

One last question. Do I treat for 50 gallons (whole tank) or just 25 gallons since that is how much water I am changing? (Using tetra aqua safe)

 

Yes, treat the entire tank. And, add the conditioner before the new water goes in or gradually add it as the tank fills. If it weren't for having one of these hoses, I'd never be able to keep up on my tanks!