Water testing-sorry beginner

When and how often should I test my water? Should I test It just before I do a water change, just after a water change, In between water changes or all three times? I'm a total beginner, though I'm sure this Is already obvious, my tank Is ready for fish and I know the water needs to be tested I just can't find anywhere that tells me when to test It. Thanks In advance!!

Yodi

 

Hello Yodi, and welcome to Fishlore.

I check your water before water changes.
If I'm concerned about something in particular, I do them also after the water change, to be sure my cause for worry is gone (e.g. very high nitrates, to see if I need to change more water).
It's also a good idea to test your tap water once every blue moon.

When you say your tank is ready for fish, does that mean it's cycled?

 

I test mine every couple of days, but then...I do a water change once to twice a week, depending on the answers from the testing. For example, my fish moved tanks on Sunday, and I did tests yesterday, which looked rather good. Also, the fish seem happier in the big tank. So, I feel good about things. I'll do another test tomorrow, along with the new water creation in preparation for Saturday's water change. Then, I'll test the water again on Monday, to be sure everything is still ok.

That's what I do, but...I'm definitely no expert, and I don't play one on the internet. I'm just very concerned about the water my fish live in. Yes, you can call that an^& retentive...it's ok...I already know that.

 

It's good to test weekly, unless you're having water chemistry issues. i'd test before a water change or a day or 2 after one.

 

I tested daily when I was cycling. Now I test weekly, right before my water change.

 

HI everyone!!

Thanks for the Info, It definitely helps alot. I do have another question though, my tank Is already cycled but then I added a few ornaments to the tank (one large size), Is this going to upset the cycle or will It not make a difference. I've asked questions on here before and everyone has been so Incredibly helpful, I've learned EVERYTHING about setting up a tank from all of you!

Yodi

 

Adding decor pieces should not harm your cycle.

 

yea, it's fine to add the decor in.

 

Thanks everyone!

Yodi